Nephrotic syndrome ayurvedic treatment

Question

My 10-year-old son was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome last year, and it’s been a rollercoaster since then. He has severe swelling in his face and legs, and his urine output is very low during relapses. The doctors put him on steroids, which helped for a while, but the side effects are worrying me. I’ve been reading about nephrotic syndrome Ayurvedic treatment and wondering if it might be a better long-term solution.

Does nephrotic syndrome Ayurvedic treatment actually help reduce protein loss in urine? I’ve come across herbs like Punarnava and Gokshura that are supposed to support kidney function, but I’m not sure how effective they are for this condition specifically. Is there a set Ayurvedic medicine or combination of treatments for nephrotic syndrome?

One thing that confuses me is whether nephrotic syndrome Ayurvedic treatment focuses more on the diet or herbal remedies. My son’s diet is already low in salt and protein because of his condition, but would Ayurveda recommend further changes? Are there specific foods to avoid or include that might complement the treatment?

Also, is nephrotic syndrome Ayurvedic treatment suitable for kids? I don’t want to risk trying something without being completely sure it’s safe for his age. If anyone has experience managing nephrotic syndrome with Ayurveda, I’d really appreciate any advice or recommendations. How long does it usually take to see results, and is this approach sustainable?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Ayurvedic treatment for nephrotic syndrome can help support kidney function and may reduce protein loss in urine, but it should be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medicine, especially for children. Punarnava and Gokshura are commonly used herbs to improve kidney health and reduce swelling, and they might be effective in managing symptoms over time. However, they should be used under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner.

Ayurvedic treatment for nephrotic syndrome typically focuses on both diet and herbal remedies. Besides maintaining a low-salt, low-protein diet, Ayurveda may suggest including foods like barley, moong dal, and fresh fruits and vegetables while avoiding heavy, oily foods. A balanced, easily digestible diet is important to support kidney function.

For children, Ayurvedic treatments are generally safe when prescribed by a qualified practitioner and adjusted for age. Results from Ayurvedic treatments can take several weeks to months, so patience is key. It's crucial to regularly consult with both your pediatric nephrologist and an Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure the treatment is safe and effective for your son.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Nephrotic syndrome can be a tough journey, especially for kids. You're right in wondering how Ayurveda might help. It's not a magic bullet, but it can complement the current treatment. Herbs like Punarnava and Gokshura, they're known for supporting kidney function. Punarnava helps reduce swelling by acting as a diuretic, which might improve urine output. Gokshura can also support renal health, but results vary — some see benefits, others less so.

Now, Ayurveda isn’t just about herbs; diet plays a huge role too. You've already lowered salt and protein, which is great. In Ayurveda, they might suggest light, digestible foods to ease the kidneys' workload. Avoiding very spicy, oily, or heavy foods is usually advised too. Foods like barley, mung beans, or red rice might be recommended because they're nourishing but gentle on the kidneys. Including plenty of vegetables (cooked, preferably) can also be beneficial.

When it comes to kids—safety first, always. Ayurvedic treatments can be suitable, but they need to be tailored specially for a child's age and constitution. Consulting a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can assess your son's specific dosha imbalance and make recommendations that align with his health needs is crucial. Be cautious of over-the-counter herbal mixes without supervision.

Results with Ayurveda might take some time. It's not an overnight fix. Patience is key, as the approach works on balancing the body rather than just immediate symptom relief. Sometimes weeks or even months to notice concrete changes, but they can be sustainable when done right. Always keep his doctors in the loop, especially if trying new treatments; it's important to have both allopathic and Ayurvedic practitioners aware of what's being tried.

So, while Ayurveda can be part of the solution, it's best when integrated carefully with modern medical advice. Make sure to validate information from reliable sources, no jumping into anything without thorough check. Stay safe, and hope your son finds relief soon!

Nephrotic syndrome ayurvedic treatment - #3845

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