Correlation between Nidana (etiological factors) and symptoms of Purishavaha Strotodushti - A cross sectional survey study

Abstract

Introduction: Strotasa a unique concept explained in Ayurveda are the channels (micro/macro) through which constituents for nourishment of Sharira bhava(body constituents)are constantly circulated. Functioning of Purishvaha Strotasa (channels for feces transportation and transformation) deals with the formation, retention and evacuation of feces. Symptoms caused by vitiation of Purishvaha Strotasa are primarily concerned with defecation. For prevention and treatment of diseases related to Purishvaha Strotasa one must account for Nidana(causative factors) those vitiates the Strotasa.  Aim of study: To survey correlation if any between causative factors stated for vitiation of Purishvaha Strotasa and symptoms of Purishvaha Stroto dushti observed in patients. Material and methods: A cross sectional survey was carried out on 120 patients suffering from vitiation of Purishvaha Strotasa above age of 60 years irrespective of sex, religion and diet pattern. Patients were surveyed with help of questionnaire designed to evaluate Strotasa Parikshana (examination), Nidana for Purishvaha Stroto dushti. Observation and results: 66.66% of participants had mixed type of diet, 95% of patients had passage of sticky foul smelling stool. Bristol Stool Chart observations revealed80 % of patient were having hard stool. All (100%) patients had modified ODS (Obstructive Defecation System) Longo score more than 16. One or more causative factors stated in Charaka Samhita for vitiation of Purishvaha Strotasa were observed in all surveyed patients with Purishvega Sandharana- suppression of an urge to defecate (66.66%) and Adhyashana– overeating when previous food is undigested (62.5%)being more prevalent. Conclusion: Outcome of study asserts a strong correlation between Nidana (etiological factors) and symptoms of Purishvaha stroto dushti.