ECMO Machine: Can Ayurveda Help in Recovery After ECMO Treatment? - #16274
My uncle was recently on an ECMO machine after he developed severe complications from pneumonia. His lungs were so weak that they couldn’t function on their own, and the doctors said the ECMO machine was the only way to give his body a chance to heal. He was in the ICU for almost three weeks, and it was honestly terrifying seeing him connected to all those tubes. Thankfully, he pulled through, and now he’s back home. But his recovery is really slow. Even though he’s off the ECMO machine, he still struggles to breathe properly, gets tired very quickly, and feels weak all the time. The doctors say it will take months for him to regain full strength, but they don’t have many solutions apart from regular breathing exercises and some medications. His digestion is also messed up—he barely has an appetite, and whatever he eats doesn’t digest well. I feel like his body is still in shock after going through such an intense experience. That’s why I’m wondering if Ayurveda can help in post-ECMO machine recovery. Are there specific herbs or treatments that can help his lungs heal faster? I’ve read about things like sitopaladi churna and mulethi for respiratory health, but are they safe for someone who was recently on an ECMO machine? Also, are there Ayurvedic methods to regain energy and strength after being bedridden for so long? Another issue—his mental health isn’t great. He’s feeling really down and anxious after being on the ECMO machine for so long. Can Ayurveda help with that too? Would Panchakarma or any specific therapies be useful, or is that too much for him right now? If anyone has experience using Ayurveda after ICU care, please share what worked. How long does it take to rebuild strength naturally after something like this? Would really appreciate any guidance.
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