1.INTRODUCTION:
A resilient 35-year-old, has faced a relentless battle with her health, marked by excruciating pain and complex medical challenges. Her journey began with severe pain in her right knee and elbow, which quickly spread, leading to a diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) after a positive anti-DS DNA test at Manipal Hospital, Bangalore. Complications like pulmonary consolidation in her right lung added to her struggles. Over the years, she has sought treatment at esteemed institutions, enduring typhoid, mild pulmonary tuberculosis, and viral fevers earlier in life. Despite persistent muscle pain, stress, and sleep disturbances, Jayasree’s determination and hope remain unwavering as she continues her quest for healing.
2.PATIENT INFORMATION:
Patient Name: Mrs. Jayasree
Age: 35 years
Mrs. Jayasree at 35, she faced a harrowing challenge: excruciating pain in her right knee and elbow. Within days, the agony spread throughout her body, compelling her to seek help. The journey began at a local hospital, but her condition deteriorated, leading her to Manipal Hospital in Bangalore. There, Dr. Dharmanavel, a rheumatologist, diagnosed her with SLE after a positive anti-DS DNA test. Her ordeal intensified with pulmonary consolidation in her right lung. Over the years, she sought treatment at various renowned hospitals, including St. Johns Hospital and the Hyderabad Rheumatology Centre under Dr. Raj Kiran, battling relentless pain and suffering.
Her medical history was a testament to her resilience. She had survived typhoid as a teenager and battled viral fever during her college years. At 22, she faced mild pulmonary tuberculosis, treated diligently at SV University Hospital. Typhoid struck again at 25, necessitating treatment at Dinesh Nursing Home. More recently, she endured severe proximal muscle pain and swelling, requiring methotrexate injections. For over a decade, stress and overthinking plagued her, and sleep disturbances became a nightly struggle. Despite these challenges, she remained hopeful, seeking solace in every treatment and never giving up on her quest for relief.
3.MEDICATION HISTORY:
| S.No | Present medication | Medication (After treatment) | Mechanism of the drug |
| 1 | Prednisolone- 2.5 mg (1-0-0) | TAPERED | It binds to the glucocorticoid receptor inhibiting proinflammatory signals and promoting anti-inflammatory signals. |
| 2 | Calcium carbonate – 1250 mg Elemental calcium- 500 mg Vitamin D3 – 2000 IU Methylcobalamine -1500 mg L- Methylfolate calcium- 1 mg Pyridoxal-5- phosphate – 20mg (0-1-0) | TAPERED | Supplements |
| 3 | Ferrous fumarate- 152 mg Folic acid – 1500 mg (1-0-0) | TAPERED | Ferrous fumarate elevates serum iron, aiding hemoglobin production. Folic acid supports red blood cell formation. |
| 4 | Hydroxychloroquinine sulphate- 200 mg (0-0-1) | 0-0-1 | Inhibits protein synthesis is susceptible organisms by inhibiting DNA & RNA polymerase. |
| 5 | Methotextrate- 10 mg (0-1-0) | Weekly once 0-1/2-0 | It promotes adenosine release and inhibits transmethylation reactions which reduces inflammation, alleviates pain, and slows disease progression |
Due to incorporating naturopathy and yoga into her treatment plan, the patient’s medication regimen has been tapered. Prednisolone is reduced to 2.5 mg daily. She continues with Calcium carbonate , Elemental calcium , Vitamin D3 , Methylcobalamine , L-Methylfolate calcium , and Pyridoxal-5-phosphate once daily. Ferrous fumarate and Folic acid are also tapered. Hydroxychloroquine sulfate remains at 200 mg night. Methotrexate is reduced to a weekly dose of 10 mg after lunch. This integrative approach aims to enhance overall wellness and reduce medication dependence.
4.NATUROPATHY AND LIFESTYLE INTERVENTIONS:
Dietary Adjustments: Adoption of an anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense diet to reduce inflammation and support immune function.
Herbal Remedies: Use of natural herbs tailored to individual needs for enhanced healing.
Stress Management Techniques: Incorporation of relaxation therapies and mindfulness to improve mental well-being.
5. RESULTS AND FOLLOW UP:
| S.No | PARAMETER | Day 1 | Day 20 |
| 1 | HS CRP | 4 | 2.1 |
| 2 | TRIGLYCERIDES | 166 | 91 |
| 3 | HDL | 37 | 45 |
| 4 | FERRITIN | 231 | 191.7 |
| 5 | VITAMIN D | 41.48 | 92.86 |
Embracing naturopathy and yoga has led to remarkable health transformations in just 20 days. HS-CRP decreased from 4 to 2.1, indicating reduced systemic inflammation. Triglycerides dropped from 166 to 91, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. HDL increased from 37 to 45, enhancing heart health. Ferritin levels decreased from 231 to 191.7, suggesting reduced iron overload. Vitamin D levels surged from 41.48 to 92.86, supporting bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.
6.DISCUSSION:
Mrs. Jayasree’s decision to integrate nature cure management with her conventional treatment for SLE represents a holistic approach to managing autoimmune conditions. Nature cure therapies, including dietary changes, herbal remedies, and stress management techniques, can play a significant role in reducing systemic inflammation, enhancing immune function, and improving overall quality of life. The emphasis on anti-inflammatory foods, such as omega-3-rich sources, and the use of adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha can complement medical treatments by managing stress and supporting the body’s resilience. Additionally, stress-reducing practices and regular exercise can help alleviate pain and promote mobility, addressing both physical and emotional well-being.
7.CONCLUSION:
Integrating nature cure management with conventional care provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to treating SLE. By focusing on both physical and mental health through natural therapies, Mrs. Jayasree is enhancing her chances of reducing inflammation, improving energy levels, and managing her autoimmune symptoms effectively. This balanced approach underscores the importance of personalized, integrative care in achieving long-term wellness and better health outcomes for SLE.