Abstract

"AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO MENIERE’S DISEASE"

Dr. Adharsh Ganesh S. K. and Dr. Savita S. Angadi*

Abstract

Meniere’s disease is a chronic inner ear disorder characterized by episodic vertigo, tinnitus, fluctuating hearing loss, and aural fullness. The condition commonly affects one ear but may involve both ears in a subset of patients. It predominantly occurs between 40 and 60 years of age and significantly impacts quality of life due to unpredictable vertiginous attacks. From an Ayurvedic perspective, Meniere’s disease can be correlated with Shrotrendriyagata Vata, a subtype of Indriyagata Vata described by Acharya Vagbhata and Charaka. Vata is considered the primary dosha responsible for sensory and motor functions, with Pitta and Kapha being dependent on its regulation. The vitiation of Vata in the auditory pathway leads to symptoms resembling vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing disturbances. Ayurveda emphasizes treating the disease based on dosha-dushya involvement rather than relying solely on nomenclature. This correlation provides a comprehensive understanding of the disease etiology, pathogenesis, and management within the framework of Tridosha theory, highlighting the importance of Vata in the manifestation of auditory and vestibular dysfunctions.

Keywords: Meniere’s disease, Vertigo, Shrotrendriyagata Vata, Indriyagata Vata, Ayurveda, Tridosha theory, Vata vitiation, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Inner ear disorders.