Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis - Causes, Symptoms & Ayurvedic Treatment

Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis is a rare disorder of the brain and spinal cord. When it occurs without any systemic disorder, it means it is only confined to the brain or spinal cord and is referred to as Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis. The term Vasculitis means the inflammation of blood vessels. It is one of the rare and poorly understood disease. It generally occurs at 50 years of age.

Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis can be a serious condition as the inflamed blood vessels block the oxygen flow to the brain thereby causing loss of brain function. In some cases, this disorder can be life-threatening as well.

What are the causes of Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis?

It occurs due to the inflammation of blood vessels in the brain. The exact etiology, as well as pathogenesis, is not known.

• In some cases, white blood cells and abnormal antibodies attack the walls of the vessels and cause destruction and inflammation of the vessel wall.
• The infection caused by the virus also causes primary central nervous system vasculitis.
• Some infections such as Mycoplasma, Rickettsia, Treponema tend to trigger this condition.
• The virus such as Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) has also been postulated as one of the triggers.

What are the symptoms of Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis?

Headache is the most common symptom in majority of primary central nervous system vasculitis.

• Severe headaches for a long period of time
• Forgetfulness or Confusion
• Weakness
• Sensation abnormalities
• Seizures
• Problems with eyesight
• Transient Ischemic Attacks known as mini strokes
• Numbness
• Ataxia

How Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis is diagnosed?

The diagnosis of this rare disorder is difficult. Because of the slow onset of the symptoms, it can take several months or years for the diagnosis of primary central nervous system vasculitis to be made. Many other infections and cancer can mimic this disease.

The tests such as X-ray, bioposy and blood vessel scans are carried out. The spinal fluid of the patient is also examined to rule out the cause of inflammation or to assess the degree of inflammation. The cerebrospinal fluid is abnormal in 80-90% cases.

The diagnosis is done on the basis of person's medical history which includes a complete physical examination such as blood tests, allergic reactions, immune responses, kidney or liver problems etc.

The blood abnormalities that are found in this disorder are:

• High levels of white blood cell count
• Low levels of red blood cell count known as anemia.
• allergic reactions
• Immune complexes circulate in the blood
• Abnormal antibodies in the blood
• An increase in the blood markers of inflammation is also observed.

A mild increase in the total protein count or leukocyte count or both is common in majority of the cases.

The biopsy of CNS tissue showing vasculitis is the only definitive test because the diagnosis is not clear in the presence of normal MRI of the brain.

Treatment:

In the early stages of primary central nervous system vasculitis, corticosteroids are prescribed. In this disorder, an early detection plays a significant role.

Cause of Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis according to Ayurveda:

According to Ayurveda, it is caused due to the imbalance of all the three doshas in the body- Vata, Pitta and Kapha with the dominance of Pitta dosha.

Treatment of Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis by Planet Ayurveda:

Planet Ayurveda offers various herbal remedies for the treatment which are very effective in reducing inflammation of the blood vessel walls.

These herbal remedies provide strength to the nerves and reduce inflammation. These herbs improve blood circulation as well as nerve function without causing any side effects.

Herbal Remedies by Planet Ayurveda include:

1. Punarnava Capsules
2. Gotukola Capsules
3. Brahmi Capsules
4. Ashwagandha Capsules

Punarnava Capsules:

Punarnava Capsules by Planet Ayurveda are prepared from the extract of the herb Boerhavia diffusa and is commonly known as Spring Hogweed. It prevents fluid retention therefore useful in preventing inflammation. It provides joint pain and inflammation and improves the immunity of the body. It rejuvenates the whole body and improves the quality of body tissues. It is quite useful in relieving inflammation of all kinds. These capsules are very helpful in treating anemia and respiratory distress. These capsules are quite effective in the treatment of Primary Central Nervous System Vasculitis.

Dose: 1-2 capsules twice daily.

Gotukola Capsules:

Planet Ayurveda's Gotukola Capsules contain the standardized extract of the herb Centella asiatica. In Ayurveda, Gotu kola is classified as a Rasayana due to its ability to maintain healthy mind and body. It has the ability to enhance nerve function. This herb acts as a tonic for the brain as well as nerves as this herb prevents nerve exhaustion. It also reduces stress and anxiety.

Dose: 1-2 capsules twice daily.

Brahmi Capsules:

Planet Ayurveda's Brahmi Capsules contain the standardized extract of the herb Bacopa monnieri. It is known as "Medhya Rasayana&quot, an herb that sharpens the mind as well as intellect.  It is an excellent herb for improving brain functions and strengthens memory. It has anti-inflammatory properties as well. It has been used in Ayurveda to treat various inflammatory conditions. It inhibits the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines from the microglial cells. The microglial cells are the immune cells of the brain that participate in the inflammation. Thus, Brahmi capsules are very effective in treating primary central nervous system vasculitis. It has anti-oxidant properties which prevent neural oxidative stress.

Dose: 1-2 capsules twice daily.

Ashwagandha Capsules:

Ashwagandha Capsules of Planet Ayurveda are prepared from the standardized extract of the herb Withania somnifera. It is considered as a rejuvenating herb in Ayurveda. It supports a healthy immune system, calms the mental processes and balances Vata dosha in the body. It rejuvenates the nervous system and hence acts as an excellent remedy for the patients of primary central nervous system vasculitis. These capsules provide relief by treating the underlying cause.

Dose: 1-2 capsules twice daily.