IMPROVEMENT IN NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH STROKE SCALE (NIHSS) AFTER ADDING YOGENDRA RASA IN STROKE PATIENT: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Stroke is the major cause of long-term disability in adults and the second leading cause of death worldwide. It usually presents with hemiparesis or hemiplegia which may be compared with Pakshaghata in Ayurveda. Different thrombolytic therapies are used to treat ischemic stroke, but they are with their many contraindications and complications of bleeding. A similar case which was contraindicated for thrombolysis due to recurrent episodes of stroke is studied and treated with Yogendra rasa, a Rasaushadhi mentioned in Ayurvedic classics. Such Ayurvedic medicines should be tried for integrated use with modern management for better outcomes. A 65-year-old male patient of recurrent stroke- diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke having predominant complaints of left side weakness and mild impaired level of consciousness- was admitted in the hospital. Addition of Yogendra Rasa to the conventional treatment significantly improved the motor power and level of consciousness. This was evident by an improvement in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Thus, Ayurvedic medicines may be added in treatment with integrated approach for better outcomes in patients of ischemic stroke.