Ayurvedic Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (Vrikka Vikara): A Case Study

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disorder characterized by gradual loss  of renal function, accumulation of metabolic waste products, and increased risk of  cardiovascular and systemic complications. In Ayurveda, CKD can be correlated with Vrikka Vikara and disorders involving Mutravaha Srotodushti, where impairment of  kidney function is associated with Tridosha imbalance, particularly Vata and Kapha,  along with the accumulation of Ama (metabolic toxins) and vitiation of Rakta and Meda  Dhatu. A 48-year-old male with a known case of chronic kidney disease (diagnosed  in July 2022) presented to Jeena Sikho Lifecare Limited Hospital, Derabassi, Punjab,  on 07/05/2024, with multiple systemic manifestations. At the time of presentation, the  patient exhibited generalized weakness (Daurbalya), fatigue (Shrama/Klama), foot  pain (Pāda Śhūla), dyspnea on exertion (Shrama Janya Shwāsa), bilateral pedal edema  (Ubhaya Pāda Śotha), mild facial puffiness (Mukha Śotha), frothy urine (Phenila Mutra),  and nocturia (Naktamutratā). The patient was hospitalized for clinical monitoring and  managed with Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle interventions for ten days from 07/05/2024  to 17/05/2024. Laboratory parameters demonstrated significant improvement following  the intervention. Blood urea decreased from 40.50 mg/dl to 17.50 mg/dl, serum creatinine  from 1.91 mg/dl to 1.70 mg/dl, and uric acid from 8.74 mg/dl to 6.95 mg/dl. Lipid profile  showed reduction in triglycerides (321.20 mg/dl to 201.47 mg/dl) and VLDL cholesterol  (64.24 mg/dl to 40.29 mg/dl). Total bilirubin reduced from 1.82 mg/dl to 1.52 mg/dl,  with stabilization of direct and indirect bilirubin levels, suggesting improved hepatic and  metabolic homeostasis. DTPA renal scan revealed persistently compromised left kidney  function (GFR 1.4–1.9 ml/min) and compensatory improvement in the right kidney  (GFR 27.9–32.8 ml/min), with global GFR increasing from 29.4 ml/min to 34.7 ml/ min. This case demonstrates that comprehensive Ayurvedic management, incorporating  dietary regulation, lifestyle modification, and patient-centered care, can lead to significant  clinical and biochemical improvement in patients with chronic kidney disease, even in  the presence of longstanding comorbidities such as hypertension. While the structural  damage in the left kidney remained irreversible, the compensatory improvement in right  renal function, along with enhanced metabolic and lipid parameters, underscores the  potential of integrative approaches in supporting renal function and overall systemic  health.