Allergic conjunctivitis is a common, yet, often underappreciated inflammatory condition of the conjunctiva, with its prevalence increasing over the past decade. It is typically caused by hypersensitivity reactions and usually presents bilaterally. Conventional treatments such as antihistamines and corticosteroids offer temporary relief but often come with side effects. This case report highlights successful management of rare, atypical unilateral presentation of Allergic conjunctivitis, diagnosed as Kapha-Raktaja abhishyanda (~conjunctivitis) through Ayurveda treatment protocol. A 31-year-old male presented with a five-day history of itching, burning, heaviness, and watery discharge in the right eye, accompanied by redness, discomfort, and mild photophobia. Clinical examination revealed diffuse congestion in the bulbar conjunctiva and follicles in the palpebral conjunctiva of the right eye, while the left eye remained unaffected. The Ayurveda treatment involved the application of Bidalaka (~application of medicated paste on the outer part of eye) for initial seven days along with internal medications, including Mahamanjishthadi kwatha , Kaishora guggulu , and Jeerakarishta for 14 days. The patient experienced significant symptomatic relief by the seventh day, with complete resolution by day 14. Further, there was marked reduction in the Japanese Allergic Conjunctival Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire for subjective symptoms and disability, from a score of 34 to 0 at the end of treatment. A three-month follow-up showed no recurrence or adverse effects. This case demonstrates that Ayurveda interventions can effectively manage unilateral allergic conjunctivitis, providing a holistic and side-effect free alternative to conventional treatment.
Goud et al. (Thu,) studied this question.