Diabetes Complications

In Ayurveda, Madhumeha (Diabetes Mellitus) is a subtype of Prameha, a disorder primarily caused by the vitiation of Kapha Dosha along with deranged Vata, Pitta, and impaired Agni (digestive fire). If left unmanaged, Madhumeha leads to dhatu kshaya (tissue depletion) and ojas kshaya (loss of vitality), resulting in several systemic complications.

Ayurvedic View on Complications

Long-standing Madhumeha causes progressive vitiation of Tridosha, especially Vata, which leads to degenerative and obstructive complications affecting multiple organs and systems. These can be broadly classified as:

1. Nervous System Complications (Vata Pradhana)

   • Neuropathy (Snayugata Vata) – Tingling, burning, and numbness in hands and feet due to Vata aggravation and dhatu depletion.

   • Retinopathy (Netra Roga) – Weakening of ocular dhatus (tissues of the eyes) caused by Pitta and Rakta vitiation.

   • Cognitive Decline (Smriti Bhramsha) – Due to depletion of Majja Dhatu and Ojas.

2. Circulatory and Cardiac Complications (Vata–Kapha Pradhana)

   • Atherosclerosis and Ischemic Heart Disease (Hridroga) – Resulting from vitiated Kapha and Meda (fat tissue) obstructing the channels (srotas).

   • Hypertension (Rakta Gata Vata) – Imbalance of Vata and Rakta leading to increased pressure within the channels.

3. Renal Complications (Mutravaha Srotodushti)

   • Nephropathy (Mutravaha Srotas Dushti) – Kapha and Pitta obstruction damages kidney tissues, reducing filtration capacity.

   • Frequent or decreased urination (Mutrakriccha) – Due to imbalance in Mutravaha Srotas and aggravated Vata.

4. Skin and Wound Complications (Twak Roga / Dushta Vrana)

   • Diabetic Ulcers and Infections – Result of Pitta–Kapha aggravation and poor wound healing due to reduced Ojas and Meda Dushti.

   • Itching, dryness, and fungal infections (Kandu, Dadru, Pidaka) – Indicate Kapha and Pitta imbalance.

5. Sexual and Reproductive Complications (Shukra Dushti)

   • Impotence or infertility (Klaibya / Vandhyatva) – Due to depletion of Shukra Dhatu and Ojas.

   • Irregular menstruation in women – From aggravated Vata and Pitta affecting Artava Dhatu.

Ayurvedic Management Approach

Ayurveda emphasizes Nidana Parivarjana (removal of causative factors), Ahara (diet), Vihara (lifestyle), and Aushadhi (herbal treatment) to prevent and manage complications:

• Rasayana therapy to rejuvenate and restore dhatus.

• Panchakarma for detoxification and metabolic correction.

• Herbs like Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), Jambu (Syzygium cumini), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), and Shilajit help regulate sugar and protect organs.

• Yoga and meditation support Vata balance and mental stability.