Cholecystitis is characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder, which plays a crucial role in storing excess bile and concentrating bile produced by the liver. Bile serves several important functions, including aiding in lipid digestion and absorption, excreting bilirubin and excess cholesterol, and neutralizing acidity in the duodenum. It consists primarily of water, along with various solid constituents such as bile salts, bilirubin, phospholipids, cholesterol, drugs and their metabolites, amino acids, enzymes, vitamins, and heavy metals.
The most common cause of acute cholecystitis is gallstone disease. When gallstones become lodged in the cystic duct, they irritate and damage the gallbladder wall upon contraction, leading to inflammation. This inflammation manifests as the signs and symptoms of acute cholecystitis. In addition to inflammation, the gallbladder also becomes distended, resulting in increased pressure within the organ. This environment facilitates the growth of bacteria, particularly E. coli. While the majority of cases of acute cholecystitis are associated with gallstone disease, a minority can occur without it. This condition, known as acalculous acute cholecystitis, is linked to gallbladder stasis and ischemia. It is commonly observed in critically ill patients who are hospitalized and experience prolonged immobilization. Risk factors for acalculous acute cholecystitis include sepsis, diabetes mellitus, immune suppression, cytomegalovirus infection, total parenteral nutrition, major trauma, and burns.
The predominant symptom of acute cholecystitis is right upper quadrant pain, initially originating in the epigastrium and then localizing to the right upper quadrant. The pain often radiates to the right shoulder and is persistent, lasting for more than six hours. Nausea, vomiting, and fever frequently accompany the pain. Patients may have a history of gallstone disease. Physical examination findings typically include tenderness and guarding in the right upper quadrant, as well as a positive Murphy's sign. This sign is elicited by deep palpation of the costal margin in the right upper quadrant while instructing the patient to take a deep breath. The pain experienced in acute cholecystitis causes the patient to cease breathing momentarily. Additional findings may include a palpable gallbladder and jaundice.
Thrayanthyadi kashayam is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation that has been traditionally used for its potential effectiveness in addressing a range of inflammatory conditions. This medicinal preparation is believed to provide therapeutic benefits for various health issues.
Some of the indications or conditions for which Thrayanthyadi kashayam is commonly employed include:
Vidradhi: Abscesses, which are localized collections of pus usually caused by bacterial infection. Gulma: Indigestion accompanied by pain and distention of the abdomen.Visarpa: Herpes, is a viral infection characterized by the formation of fluid-filled blisters on the skin or mucous membranes.
Daaha: Burning sensation, often associated with conditions like gastritis or urinary tract infections. Moha: Vertigo, a sensation of spinning or dizziness. Mada: Intoxications, referring to toxic or poisoning conditions caused by substances or factors. Jwara: Fever, an elevation in body temperature usually resulting from an immune response to infection or inflammation.
Thrt: Excessive thirst, a persistent feeling of thirst often seen in conditions such as diabetes or dehydration. Murccha: Fainting or blackouts, temporary loss of consciousness typically due to a lack of oxygen to the brain. Chardi: Vomiting, the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. Hrdroga: Chest pain and discomforts associated with heart diseases or cardiac conditions. Pittasrk kushta: Skin diseases characterized by pitta (one of the Ayurvedic doshas) and rakta (blood) vitiation.