Old Age Diseases and Their Cures

As individuals age, they become more susceptible to a variety of diseases commonly referred to as?geriatric diseases. These conditions can significantly affect their quality of life and often require specialized treatment approaches. Below is an overview of some prevalent old age diseases, their characteristics, and potential cures or management strategies.

Common Old Age Diseases

1. Arthritis Description: It affects the joints, causing pain and stiffness. The two main types are osteoarthritis (wear and tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune). Management: Medication such as painkillers and corticosteroids, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and weight management can all help relieve pain.
2. Cardiovascular Diseases This category includes conditions like ischemic heart disease and hypertension, which are common in older adults due to factors like atherosclerosis. Management includes lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, medications to control blood pressure and cholesterol, and in some cases, surgical interventions.
3. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Description: A gradual loss of kidney function often linked to diabetes and high blood pressure. Management: Regular monitoring, dietary adjustments, medications to manage symptoms, and potentially dialysis in advanced stages
4. Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease Description: Cognitive decline affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. Management: While there is no cure, treatments focus on managing symptoms through medications, cognitive therapies, and support for caregivers
5. Diabetes Description: A metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance or deficiency. Management: Lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise), blood sugar monitoring, and medications such as insulin or oral hypoglycemics
6. Osteoporosis Description: A condition leading to weakened bones and increased fracture risk. Management measures include medications such as bisphosphonates, calcium and vitamin D supplements, and weight-bearing exercises.
7. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Description: A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make breathing difficult. Management: smoking cessation, bronchodilators, steroids, pulmonary rehabilitation
8. Parkinson's Disease Description: A progressive neurological disorder characterized by tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance. Management: Conventional treatments include medications like levodopa; Ayurveda treatments suggest herbs such as Atmagupta (Mucuna pruriens) for dopamine production enhancement.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Old Age Diseases

Ayurveda offers alternative approaches for managing various old age diseases by focusing on restoring balance within the body:

• Parkinson's Disease: Use herbs such as Atmagupta to support dopamine levels. Brahmi for cognitive enhancement. Green tea for neuroprotection
• General Health Improvement: You should incorporate a balanced diet rich in antioxidant foods. Engage in regular yoga practices to improve your mobility and strength. Stress management techniques such as meditation

Conclusion

The management of old age diseases requires a multifaceted approach that includes medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and potentially alternative therapies like Ayurveda. Understanding these conditions can help in early detection and effective management strategies to improve the quality of life for older adults. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers are essential to tailor treatment plans that address the unique needs of aging individuals.

Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by a decline in cognitive function, primarily affecting memory and behaviour. The symptoms typically develop gradually and can vary significantly from person to person. Here’s a breakdown of the symptoms across different stages of the disease

Early Symptoms

In the initial stages, individuals may experience subtle memory lapses and cognitive difficulties, including:

• Memory loss manifests as forgetting recent conversations or events, misplacing items, and repeating questions.
• Language Difficulties: Trouble finding the right words or following conversations.
• Judgment issues include poor decision-making or judgment, such as incorrect handling of money.
• Disorientation occurs when one loses track of dates or becomes lost in familiar places.
• Mood changes can include increased anxiety, agitation, or changes in personality.

Middle-Stage Symptoms

As the disease progresses, symptoms become more pronounced:

• Worsening memory loss can lead to difficulties in recognizing familiar faces or recalling personal history.
• Cognitive decline is characterized by increased confusion, difficulty with language (aphasia), and problems with spatial awareness.
• Behavioural changes include hallucinations, delusions, obsessive behaviors, and paranoia towards caregivers or family members.
• Functional impairment refers to the difficulty in performing daily tasks such as dressing or bathing without assistance.

Later Symptoms

In the advanced stages of Alzheimer's, the symptoms become severe.

• Severe Memory Loss: Inability to recognize loved ones and significant memory impairment.
• Physical Decline: Difficulty with mobility, eating (dysphagia), and loss of bladder and bowel control.
• Communication loss is characterized by a gradual loss of speech and an inability to communicate effectively.
• Increased Dependency: Individuals may require full-time care for basic activities like eating and personal hygiene.

Additional Considerations

Other health conditions, such as infections or strokes, can sometimes exacerbate symptoms. It is crucial for individuals experiencing rapid worsening of symptoms to seek medical advice to rule out treatable conditions

Early detection of these symptoms can help those with Alzheimer's disease live better lives and improve management strategies.

Best Ayurveda Treatments for Alzheimer's disease

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing Alzheimer's disease, focusing on restoring balance within the body and mind. Here are some of the most effective Ayurvedic treatments and herbal remedies for Alzheimer's:

Key Ayurvedic Therapies

1. Panchakarma The detoxification process aims to remove toxins from the body and rejuvenate it. Specific therapies include: Vamana?(therapeutic vomiting) Virechana?(purgation) Basti?(medicated enemas) Nasya?(nasal administration of medicines)
2. Shirodhara It involves pouring warm medicated oil over the forehead, which calms the mind, reduces stress, and improves sleep quality.
3. Shirobasti The treatment involves placing a cap filled with warm oil on the head to nourish the brain and improve memory.
4. Abhyanga The full-body oil massage enhances circulation, nourishes the nervous system, and fosters relaxation.

Herbal Remedies

1. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) Known for its memory-boosting properties, Brahmi enhances cognitive function and reduces anxiety and stress levels
2. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) It functions as a nerve tonic and adaptogen, aiding in the reduction of inflammation in brain cells and enhancing overall cognitive health.
3. Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis): This herb is known for its nootropic properties, which improve memory and calm the mind. . Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) enhances mental clarity and cognitive function while safeguarding neurons from oxidative stress.
4. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Curcumin, recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics, aids in shielding brain cells from harm.
5. Trailokya Vijaya Vati An Ayurvedic formulation containing hemp has demonstrated potential in alleviating Alzheimer's symptoms by enhancing nerve cell communication and reducing behavioral issues.
6. Vanshlochan (Bambusa arundinacea): Known for its neuroprotective properties, it helps prevent nerve cell death and supports overall brain health

Dietary Recommendations

• Emphasizing a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is crucial.
• Avoid processed foods and those that may increase Vata dosha, such as overly dry or cold foods.
• Incorporate spices like turmeric and ginger for their health benefits.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Regular yoga and meditation practices can help improve mental clarity and reduce stress.
• Maintaining a routine that includes physical activity can also support cognitive function.

Conclusion

Ayurveda treatments for Alzheimer's disease focus on holistic healing through detoxification, herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes. While these treatments aim to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, it is essential to consult with qualified Ayurveda practitioners to tailor an individual treatment plan that addresses specific needs.

Written by

SHYAM GOKARN

India

M:?+91-9481010670

Email:?smgokarn@gmail.com