Association of Viharaj Hetus (External and Environmental Factors) with Shirahshool (Headache) – A cross sectional study

Abstract

Background- Shirahshool (headache) encompasses all the aches and discomforts associated in the Shira(head) region and is described under the caption of Shiroroga in Ayurveda texts. Aharaj (diet related) and Viharaj (external and environmental) Hetus are the main causative factors for any disease; yet the external and environmental factors also play an  important role in Shirahshool. Aim-To observe the role of Viharaj Hetus for their association with Shirahshool .Study Design-This cross sectional study was conducted amongst the pre diagnosed Shirahshool patients, both male and females from the age group 20-60 years, who were suffering for more than one year and get Shirahshool for more than 30 minutes every time. A structured, pilot tested questionnaire with 15 questions validated by scientific committee was used to collect the information. Statistical analysis- The collected data is qualitative Pearson correlation test and Chi square test is used to test the association between Viharaj Hetus and Shirahshool. P- Value  less than 0.05; which was considered as significant association. Result- Amongst Viharaj Hetus, Shita Vayu Sewan (cold air exposure-external environmental factor) was present in maximum number of patients i.e. 40 %, Nidra Vega Vidharana (suppression of the urge for sleep) in 36%, Asatmya Gandha Sewan(bad odour) in 31 % of total Shirahshool patients. Conclusion- The highest  incidence of Shiroroga based on chronicity (59%) is in between 1-5 years with the duration for 30-60 minutes and based on severity 46% with moderate grade of Shirashool. Exposure to cold air and suppression of urge for sleep are the causative factors found as important with respect to duration of exposure whereas anger was noted as major, immediate Hetu of Shirahshool. Thus the association of Viharaj hetus with Shirahshool is of very much importance with respect to diagnosis, prevention and treatment