1.Introduction:
Mrs. Vijayalakshmi, a 32-year-old woman, has been living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus for the past five years. Her health journey began in 2018 with symptoms such as headaches, scalp desquamation, hair loss, and severe skin allergies affecting multiple areas of her body, including her face, chest, neck, hands, thighs, and head. Despite being treated with medications like prednisolone, HCQS, and Vitamin D supplements at Pratima Hospital under Dr. Pranitha’s care, her condition worsened after two years, with additional complications such as proteinuria, leg swelling, ascites, irregular periods, and persistent fever. After consulting several hospitals, including Vardha Hospital and Nijambat Ashram, her condition was exacerbated by abrupt changes in her medication. In 2022, she sought treatment at SLNS Nature Cure Hospital under Dr. Karthik Reddy. Following comprehensive testing and the introduction of naturopathic treatments, yoga, and lifestyle changes, she experienced significant improvements in her health markers and overall condition.
2.Patient Information:
Name: Mrs. Vijayalakshmi
Age: 32 years
Medical Condition: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Duration of Illness: 5 years
Mrs. Vijayalakshmi, a 32-year-old woman, has been battling Systemic Lupus Erythematosus for the past five years. Her symptoms began in 2018 with headaches, scalp desquamation, hair loss, and severe skin allergies affecting her face, chest, neck, hands, thighs, and head. Seeking medical attention at Pratima Hospital, she was prescribed medications like prednisolone, HCQS, and Vitamin D supplements by Dr. Pranitha.
Despite two years of medication, her condition worsened with additional symptoms such as proteinuria, leg swelling, ascites, irregular periods, and persistent fever. Her condition further deteriorated after consulting various hospitals, including Vardha Hospital and Nijambat Ashram, where abrupt changes in her medication led to adverse effects.
In 2022, Mrs. Vijayalakshmi was admitted to SLNS Nature Cure Hospital under the care of Dr. Karthik Reddy. Upon admission, comprehensive blood tests revealed abnormal levels of several biomarkers. Following naturopathic treatments, yoga, and lifestyle modifications, significant improvements were observed.
3.Medication History:
Sl.No | Medication Before treatment | Medication (After 12 months treatment) | Purpose |
1 | Azathioprine 50 mg (0-1-0) | Tapered | Inhibition of B and T lymphocytes and purine synthesis induces immunosuppression. |
2 | Folic Acid (0-1-0) | Tapered | Supplement used to prevent side effects of immunosuppressive drugs |
3 | Torsemide & Spironolactone 25mg (1-0-0) | Tapered | Inhibit Na+/ K+/ 2Cl co transport mechanism which is a diuretic used to treat fluid retention and High blood pressure |
4 | Prednisone 40mg (1-0-0) | Tapered | Corticosteroid bind to glucocorticoid receptors, inhibiting proinflammatory signals and promoting anti-inflammatory signals. |
5 | Pantoprazole Gastro Resistant 40mg (1-0-0) | Tapered | Proton pump inhibitor used to treat gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux |
6 | Vitamin C (0-1-0) | Taking vitamin c supplement from Natural source | Vitamin supplement used to boost the immune system |
7 | Hydroxychloroquine 200mg (1-0-1) | Tapered | Prevents antigen binding (inhibit alfa and beta chains to MHC) reduces inflammation. |
Naturopathy treatments have shown remarkable effectiveness in reducing the reliance on conventional medications. Prior to treatment, patients were prescribed various drugs, including Azathioprine (50 mg, 0-1-0) as an immunosuppressive, Folic Acid (0-1-0) as a vitamin supplement, Torsemide (10 mg) and Spironolactone (25 mg, 1-0-0) as diuretics, Prednisone (40 mg, 1-0-0) as a corticosteroid, Pantoprazole (40 mg, 1-0-0) for gastrointestinal issues, Vitamin C (0-1-0) to boost immunity, and Hydroxychloroquine (200 mg, 1-0-1) for autoimmune conditions. After the nature cure treatment, all these medications were successfully tapered, reflecting the holistic benefits of naturopathy in managing and potentially reducing the need for conventional drugs.
4.Naturopathic And Lifestyle Intervention:
Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Emphasize omega-3-rich foods. Include leafy greens and antioxidant fruits (berries, citrus). Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and dairy to reduce inflammation.
Supportive Herbs: Turmeric and ginger can help manage inflammation and support adrenal health. Incorporate these herbs in meals or as teas for added benefit.
Exercise and Flexibility: Practice yoga and light aerobic exercises to enhance joint flexibility. These activities also reduce fatigue and promote cardiovascular health.
Stress Management: Meditation and relaxation techniques are vital for managing stress. Ensure adequate sleep to support the body’s recovery and overall well-being.
Hydration and Detoxification: Stay hydrated with herbal teas and water.
5.Results And Follow Ups:
Sl.no | Biomarker | Before Treatment | After treatment |
1 | HbA1C | 5.9 | 5.3 |
2 | Uricacid | 6.12 | 5.36 |
3 | Vitamin D | 34.2 | 106.6 |
4 | LDL | 342 | 141 |
5 | Lipoprotein A | >100 | 49 |
6 | Triglycerides | 161 | 50 |
7 | HDL | 22 | 33 |
8 | ANA | Strong positive ++++Ve | Weakly Positive +ve |
9 | Lymphocytes | 12 | 24 |
10 | Urinary protein | ++++ (frothy urine ) | Nil (no protein in urine) |
Naturopathy has shown impressive results in improving vital health biomarkers, each contributing to overall well-being. Before treatment, the HbA1C level was 5.9%, but after treatment, it decreased to 5.3%, reducing the risk of diabetes. Uric Acid levels dropped from 6.12 mg/dL to 5.36 mg/dL, lowering the risk of gout and kidney stones. Vitamin D levels increased from 34.2 ng/mL to 106.6 ng/mL, enhancing bone health and immune function. LDL cholesterol, a key risk factor for heart disease, plummeted from 342 mg/dL to 141 mg/dL. Lipoprotein A, which is linked to cardiovascular risks, decreased from over 100 mg/dL to 49 mg/dL. Triglycerides fell from 161 mg/dL to 50 mg/dL, further reducing heart disease risk. Lastly, HDL, the “good” cholesterol, increased from 22 mg/dL to 33 mg/dL, offering better protection against heart disease. These improvements highlight the comprehensive benefits of naturopathy in promoting long-term health and wellness.
6.Discussion:
Mrs. Vijayalakshmi’s treatment at SLNS Nature Cure Hospital highlighted the effectiveness of a comprehensive naturopathic approach in managing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Before starting the treatment, she was on multiple medications, including immunosuppressive drugs, diuretics, corticosteroids, and hydroxychloroquine, which were all tapered down during her naturopathic care. The naturopathic interventions, including dietary modifications, herbal support, yoga, and lifestyle changes, contributed to significant improvements in her biomarkers. Her HbA1C, uric acid, Vitamin D levels, and lipid profile (including LDL, triglycerides, and lipoprotein A) showed marked improvement, indicating better metabolic and cardiovascular health. The reduction in inflammation was also reflected in the improvement of her HDL levels, signaling better cardiovascular protection.
7.Conclusion:
The treatment at SLNS Nature Cure Hospital, which focused on a holistic approach involving diet, herbal support, physical activity, and stress management, has significantly benefited Mrs. Vijayalakshmi. The reduction in disease markers and symptoms highlights the effectiveness of naturopathy in the management of SLE.Moreover, her clinical symptoms of SLE, such as skin allergies, leg swelling, and proteinuria, showed substantial improvement. This reduction in symptoms is significant not only for managing the disease but also in improving her overall quality of life. The ability to stop all medications is a noteworthy outcome of the naturopathic approach, demonstrating the potential of complementary therapies in managing chronic autoimmune conditions. Her case suggests that integrating lifestyle modifications with conventional treatment may lead to better long-term outcomes and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with autoimmune disorders like SLE. Continued monitoring and support from both naturopathic and conventional care providers will be essential in maintaining her progress and preventing flare-ups.