Ayurvedic Management of Baadhirya : A Clinical Case Study on Age-Related Hearing Loss
¹J Irfon and 2N Anjaneya Prasad
1,2Department of Shalakya Tantra, Parul Institute of Ayurved and Research, Vadodara – 391760 (India)
ABSTRACT
Aging is a natural process in which an organism undergoes structural and functional changes over time, leading to a gradual decline from its peak physiological performance. It acts as a biological clock for the human body. Among the various socio-medical challenges associated with aging, presbycusis is a hidden disability characterized by hearing impairment in elderly individuals. Hearing loss in older adults is a significant concern, as it can affect their ability to hear alarms, doorbells, or engage in conversations, leading to frustration, isolation, and depression. It is the third most common chronic condition in the elderly, following arthritis and hypertension. Hearing impairment can often be managed with the help of hearing aids. However, their effectiveness varies from person to person due to factors such as improper selection, incorrect amplification settings, or poor customization. In Ayurveda, this condition is classified under ear disorders as Karnabaadhirya. One of the key therapeutic interventions described in classical texts is Karnapurana—the instillation of medicated oil into the external auditory canal, which is beneficial in ear-related ailments. This paper presents a case report of a 65-year-old male patient who experienced diminished hearing and tinnitus in both ears, highlighting the Ayurvedic approach to managing such conditions.