Ayurvedic treatment for Acute Kidney Injury

Causes of AKI

AKI can be caused by many things, and knowing these causes can help prevent it if you are at risk or if you may get AKI. Some common causes are:

•          Severe dehydration from illness, vomiting, or diarrhea.

•          Infections of the kidneys or urinary tract.

•          Decreased flow to the kidneys from heart problems, surgery, or blood loss.

•          Blockage due to kidney stones, or enlarged prostate (for men)- obstructing urination.

•          Overuse of certain (primarily NSAID)

Symptoms

AKI doesn’t always show obvious signs early on, but the body does send out warning signals:

• Reduced or no urine output.
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Shortness of breath.
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Sudden weight gain from fluid retention.

Diagnosis

AKI is diagnosed through:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• Ultrasound or CT scans

Complications

If left untreated, AKI can lead to serious problems, such as:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Fluid overload, causing heart and lung issues
• Electrolyte imbalances (dangerous for heart rhythm)
• Permanent kidney damage
• In severe cases, it can be life-threatening

Acute Kidney Injury Ayurvedic Treatment

Ayurvedic treatment for acute kidney injury uses the following herbs to treat this disease:

·         Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) - A strong diuretic, it will help reduce swelling and remove excess fluid without damaging the kidney tissues.

·         Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) - This herb will promote urinary function and reduce inflammation.

·         Varun (Crataeva nurvala) - This herb will help with blockage and encourage the flow of urine.

·         Kaasni (Cichorium intybus) - This herb will support and detoxify, as well as have a protective effect on the kidney cells.

·         Palash (Butea monosperma) - This herb balances Kapha and reduces water retention.

·         Coriander seeds - This herb is very easy on the kidneys, supports healthy filtration.

Disclaimer: Please make sure you consult your doctor before consuming these herbs. DIY treatments are strongly advised against.

Lifestyle Changes

Ayurvedic treatment for acute kidney injury does not just rely on herbs; it also advises the patients to correct their lifestyle habits:

·         Stay hydrated: Drink clean, lukewarm water. Do not drink cold or iced drinks as they will weaken your Agni (digestive fire).

·         Eat a kidney-friendly diet: Fresh fruits (like apples, papaya), and lightly cooked vegetables, along with moong dal, will lessen the load on the kidneys.

·         Reduce high salt and processed foods: These foods put extra stress on the kidneys, and this is not needed.

·         Don't consume too much protein: Especially red meat! If necessary, stick to plant-based proteins.

·         Make sure you get enough rest: Kidneys heal quickly when your body is relaxed.

·         Yoga and gentle pranayama: Poses like Balasana (Child pose) and breathing exercises can help improve the blood circulation to your kidneys.

·         Try and limit drugs that can be hard on the kidneys: Only use painkillers and certain antibiotics when necessary and always as directed by your doctor.

Conclusion

Acute Kidney Injury can seem intimidating, but it does not have to be a helpless feeling. Timely care allows the kidneys to do their natural thing, and recovery is amazing. Ayurvedic acute kidney injury treatment will also give you the tools to care for your kidneys intrinsically while attempting to prevent further damage. Ayurveda does not replace the need for emergency medical care, as it will give you a complementary approach to the time-tested advice of Ayurveda.