Integrative management of chronic kidney disease: A case study combining siddha and modern medicine

TL;DR

This case study shows that combining Siddha medicine with modern treatments can improve symptoms in a patient with chronic kidney disease.

Contribution

Demonstrates Siddha medicine's potential as an integrative approach for managing chronic kidney disease.

Findings

The patient showed significant clinical and biochemical improvements after two and a half months of treatment.

Symptoms like edema, frothy urination, and dyspnoea were resolved with the integrative approach.

Serum creatinine levels were reduced, indicating improved kidney function.

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disorder frequently associated with long standing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and
Systemic Hypertension (SHTN). A 53-year-old male with an 8-year history of DM and a 5-year history of SHTN presented with pedal edema,
frothy urination, dyspnoea and generalized itching, with no improvement from allopathic treatment and he refused dialysis. He opted for
Siddha medicine, receiving Polyherbal nephroprotective decoction, polyherbal iron enriched decoction, calcined pearl-based formulation
and calcined Herbo mineral formulation, while continuing Metformin and Amlodipine. After two and a half months, the patient showed
significant clinical and biochemical improvements, including reduced serum creatinine, resolution of edema and relief from urinary and
respiratory symptoms. Thus, we show the potential of Siddha medicine as a nephroprotective and integrative approach in managing CKD
alongside allopathic treatment.