Author Archives: Dr. Vaidya Karanvir Singh

The ichthyoses are a group of skin disorders in which the skin’s ability to shed dead skin cells is impaired. They are a very heterogeneous group characterized by areas of dry, scaly, and thickened skin varying in severity. Redness and itching may also be present.

They can be inherited or acquired, and are further classified as syndromic vs non-syndromic. It can present on anybody location. Over 20 types of ichthyoses exist.

This rare group of skin disorders can affect any individual. Most forms of ichthyosis are Genetical i.e. acquired from the parents and appear at birth or during childhood, but some or less common forms develop in later life.

In rare cases, acquired ichthyosis can occur during childhood or adulthood and can be associated with drug adverse effects, HIV, malignancy, thyroid disease, nutritional disorders, sarcoidosis, autoimmune disease and lymphoproliferative disorders.

Causes of Itchthyosis

Genetically acquired types of ichthyosis results due to genetic mutations that alter the appearance and behavior of the keratinocytes in the stratum corneum i.e. skin cells present in the outer layer of the skin. This causes defects in the barrier function of the stratum corneum and results in inflammation and hyper proliferation which produce lichenified and scaly skin. The cause of acquired ichthyosis is currently unknown. This condition may result due to certain conditions such as kidney disease, hypothyroidism, HIV, certain cancers, and certain drugs.

What are the Symptoms of Itchthyosis?

1.Dry and cracked skin
2.Scaly skin (white, gray, brown)
3.Areas of thickened skin
4.Itchiness
5.Redness
6.Occasional pain

How much time does it persist?

Inherited ichthyosis will persist lifelong; however you can manage its symptoms by following a strict skincare routine. Acquired ichthyosis can improve and resolve with treatment of the underlying condition or discontinuation of the causative drug.

First-line Treatment-

1.Bathing: Long baths to facilitate scale removal are recommended.
2.Additives such as emollient oils and sodium bicarbonate can be used if desired.
3.Emollients and moisturizers: This will provide hydration and smooth the skin. Components include humectants (glycerin), occlusive (petroleum), emollients (cetyl alcohol), keratolytics (urea, salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids) and other components.
4.Exfoliate skin using an exfoliating glove or sponge to remove scale
5.Use a humidifier to keep a moist atmosphere
6.Limit sun exposure, always apply sunscreen and wear sun-protective clothing & a hat.
Second-line therapy:
7.Oral retinoids: Vitamin A derivatives. They include etretinate (brand Tegison), isotretinoin (brands Accutane, Epuris, Clarus and others), and acitretin (brand Soriatane).
8.Vitamin D supplementation for severe forms of ichthyosis.
9.Antibiotics: These are only prescribed for secondary bacterial infections (when the skin has become infected due to multiple cracks and fissures).
10.Eye ointments or creams: Petrolatum ointment can be applied to the eyelid skin several times a day to help prevent tightening of the skin.

How is Ichthyosis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of ichthyosis is based on the review of the following:

1.Skin appearance: scale pattern, colour, quality and presence of a collodion membrane at birth, erythroderma and presence of erosions.
2.The time of onset and evolution over time
3.Family history
4.Histopathologic findings on skin biopsy
5.Associated cutaneous findings: blisters, hair abnormalities and photosensitivity
6.Presence or absence of extracutaneous findings
7.Genetic testing

Ichthyosis can be identified through visual examination of your skin. A biopsy of the affected area may be performed. Genetic testing and prenatal testing can be performed for X-linked ichthyosis (a type of inherited ichthyosis). If acquired ichthyosis is suspected your doctor may perform some blood tests and imaging (X-rays).

What else could this be?

1.Acrodermatitis enteropathica: A rare genetic disorder in which the person is unable to absorb zinc from the intestine.
2.Sarcoidosis: An inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs in any part of the body.
3.Atopic dermatitis: A condition that makes your skin red and itchy.
4.Erythrokeratoderma variabilis et progressiva: A group of inherited keratinization disorders which presents as fixed or migratory erythematous plaques and fixed hyperkeratotic plaques. Palmoplantar keratoderma is often present.
5.Netherton Syndrome: A rare autosomal recessive disorder of cornification. It is characterized by a triad of congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma, trichorrhexis invaginata (a hair shaft abnormality), and an atopic diathesis

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ICHTHYOSIS

1.The main goal of treatment is to moisturize and exfoliate the skin. Proper moisturization helps to prevents dryness, scaling, cracking and buildup of the skin.
2.A person suffering from ichthyosis needs to bathe, moisturize and exfoliate their skin daily on regular bases.
3.Chandigarh Ayurveda Centre provide advanced Ayurveda Skin Treatment by the means of various creams, scrubs, Gels and oils which are very helpful to keep the skin moist, and it also prevent the dehydration of skin hence the dryness covers automatically.
4.Apply these herbal and ayurvedic creams and gels to the wet skin immediately after bathe within 3 minutes of showering.
5.The people who have acquired ichthyosis may need internal lubrication which is one form of Panchakarma “Snehan”.
6.Oral herbal and ayurvedic medicines are not much role directly but indirectly it strengthens the skin and the tissues of the body by enhancing immune system and rejuvenates the skin.

CAC SPECIAL MEDICATION FOR ITCHTHYOSIS

Description

1.Detox Premium Powder:

This is a herbo-mineral preparation that contains ingredients like Parwal Pishti, Giloy satv, Shukta Pishti, Kamdudha Ras, Gandhak Rasayan, etc.

Parwal Pishti: This Pishti reduces inflammation, flaking, itching of the skin. The Pishti is composed of natural coral calcium processed with rose water.

Shukta Pishti: It helps to balance the Pitta dosha in the body. All signs and symptoms related to Psoriasis patients are managed with this article.

Giloy Satv: This satv is prepared from the herb Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia). The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties of this herb deal with psoriasis easily.

Kamdudha Ras: This herbal-mineral classical preparation balances Pitta dosha in the body.

Gandhak Rasayana: This herbal preparation is used since ancient times for all types of skin disorders.
Tal Sindoor: It contains ingredients like Shuddh parad, Aloe vera, Gandhak, etc that relieve redness in psoriasis patients.

Akik Pishti: This Pishti reduces all types of Pitta related disorder hence it gives good results in psoriasis.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 sachet twice daily with plain water.

2.Skin Care Tablet:

skin care tablet is a pure ayurvedic formulation. It help to maintain the texture of your skin depending on the type of skin you have. It contains various herbs like Haridra khand, Panchnimb churna, Khadir chahal, Chirayta, Mulethi, Chopchini, Gandhak, Ajmoda that work very effectively on all skin types. Skin care is a blood purifying tablet. It cools and detoxifies the blood, increase blood circulation of the skin. It minimizes the blemishes, lighten sun tan, delay ageing of skin and heal skin problems.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily.

3.Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu:

Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu is an ayurvedic preparation mainly used for skin diseases. This tablet contains pure herbal ingredients such as Nimba(Azadirachta indica), Patola(Cucumis acutangulus), Guduchi(Tinospora cordifolia), Vasa(Adhatoda vasica), etc. This tablet promotes detoxification and rejuvenation. Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu tablet is a natural source of anti – oxidant. It promotes engender vibrant and healthy skin.

Recommended Dosage–Take 1 tablets twice a day with normal water.

4.Itch Cure Tablet:

It is pure herbal combination which is purely natural. Skin primarily protects our body from toxins present in environment. Itching is related to various skin problems like dermatitis or irritates such as nickel in jewelry, infected cut. Chronic skin conditions like psoriasis, acne and due to internal conditions like blood, lungs, and liver. Mainly toxin in skin arises due to excess rakta dhatu and rasa or plasma nourishes the skin. Itch cure tablet has cooling herbs which provide cooling effects to patients by pacifying pitta doshas. This tablet helps to purify blood as wells as cleanses and rejuvenates the body.

Recommended Dosage–Take 1 tablets twice a day with normal water.

5.Aloe Vera Gulab Gel:

Aloe Vera Gel is formed with the pure extract of herb Aloe Vera and the mixture of rose petals. Thus this wonderful composition provides a cooling effect on the skin that relieves from burning sensation, itchiness, etc. The gel helps in maintaining healthy skin and repairing skin damage.

Recommended Dosage – Gently apply over the affected area of the skin.

What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

1.Seborrheic dermatitis is a very common skin disease that causes a red rash.
2.This type of dermatitis causes itchy red patches and greasy scales on the skin.
3.It is common but not contagious.
4.It causes redness on light skin and light patches on darker skin.

CAUSES OF SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS

The exact cause of this type of dermatitis is not completely known. Researchers think there may be many causes, including:

1.Stress
2.Hereditary cause
3.A yeast that usually lives on your skin without causing problems
4.Certain medical conditions and medicines
5.Dry and cold weather
6.An irregular response of the immune system
7.Exposure to harsh chemicals
8.It doesn’t come from an allergy or from being unclean.

SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS RISK FACTORS

1.It occurs most often in newborns and in adults ages 30 to 60.
2.People with oily skin are more prone to get this type of dermatitis.

Following conditions can increase risk of developing the seborrheic dermatitis, including-

1.Depression
2.Psoriasis
3.Oily skin
4.Alcoholism
5.Facial nerve palsy
6.Hormonal changes
7.Environmental factors, like pollution
8.Spinal cord injury
9.Eating disorders
10.Epilepsy
11.Heart attack or stroke recovery
12.Medical conditions such as AIDs and Parkinson’s disease
13.Rosacea

SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS SYMPTOMS

1.Itchy white flakes on the scalp (dandruff)
2.Crusty yellow or brown scales on infants’ heads
3.Red scales on your skin.
4.Scaly redness on the edges of your eyelids (Blepharitis)
5.Inflamed hair follicles on cheeks
6.Inflamed hair follicles on upper half of trunk
7.Pinkish thick skin (plaques ) of scales on both sides of the face
8.Redness especially in the folds and creases of armpits, genitals and beneath breasts.

DIFFRENCIAL DIAGNOSIS

DANDRUFF-

1.Dandruff is a condition in which White, oily, itchy flakes are found on the scalp.
2.That can be worsening during fall and winter months when air is dry.

ROSACEA

Red, small, pus-filled bumps on the skin appearing in cycles of flare-ups

PSORIASIS

Thick patches of dry, red, inflamed skin covered in silvery-white scales. Patches are often itchy.

TINEA VERSICOLOR

1.Small, discolored, flaky patches of skin ranging in color from white to tan to brown to pink
ATOPIC DERMATITIS (ECZEMA)
2.Atopic dermatitis is a condition that makes your skin dry and itchy.
3.It is also known as eczema, is a type of skin rash.

What Remedies Can Be Done At Home?

1.Using over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal and anti-itch creams
2.Another option for at-home treatment is to coat your scalp with olive oil.
3.Using hypoallergenic soap and detergent
4.To avoid skin irritation wear loose cotton cloth
5.Apple cider vinegar reduces the inflammation in the area of the flare-up.
6.To treat seborrheic dermatitis on your scalp, wash your hair with a mild Ayurvedic shampoo first. Then, apply apple cider vinegar to your scalp.
7.Apply aloe vera gel to the affected area and leave it on. It is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties and works wonder in treating seborrheic dermatitis.

MEDICAL TREATMENTS

Seborrheic dermatitis may go away without treatment Or you may need many repeated treatments for seborrheic dermatitis outbreaks.

CORTICOSTEROIDS

1.Corticosteroids or hydrocortisone containing shampoos and creams can help reduce severe inflammation.
2.These shampoo and creams are suitable for short-term use, long -term use can cause side effects.

KERATOLYTICS

Using a product containing salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea, and propylene glycol etc. can help remove scales.

ANTIBACTERIAL GELS

These can help in the case of a bacterial infection.

ANTIFUNGAL CREAMS

These can help in the case of a fungal infection.

LIGHT THERAPY

Exposing the affected area to UV light may help soothe the skin and reduce itching and redness.

COAL TAR CREAM

1.This cream can help slow the process of skin cells dying and falling off.
2.Apply coal tar cream to affected areas and leave it for 4 to 5 hours.
3.After that remove it with help of mild shampoo.

DIET FOR SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS

1.Tomatoes
2.Almonds
3.Sweet potatoes
4.Plenty of green and leafy vegetables
5.Foods that is high in vitamin c, such as citrus and bell peppers.
6.Foods that are rich in vitamin B, such as whole grains (rice, oats, wheat etc), legumes (soy, lentils, dried beans, peas) and nuts.
7.Foods that are rich in proteins, such as peanuts and walnuts etc.
8.Foods with plenty of vitamin e, such as wheat germ, olive oil and avocados.
9.Add antioxidants rich fruits, such as cherries, strawberries, and blueberries in your diet.

LIFE STYLE CHANGES FOR SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS

1.Soften and remove scales from the hairs
2.To avoid skin irritation wear a smooth-textured cotton cloth.
3.Wash your skin regularly
4.Apply a medicated gel and cream
5.Avoid styling products such as excessive makeup, hair straightener, and dryer.
6.Skin and hair products that contain too much alcohol are to be avoided.

A cyst is a benign (non-cancerous), round, dome-shaped structure that grows under the skin and appears on your skin. It can be filled with liquid, pus, or another substance. Cysts often feel firm and will distend the overlying skin. Any individual can experience a cyst and they can present on any part of your skin or mucous membrane, however, they are most commonly found on the neck, face, and chest. They are often small and slow-growing.

Causes OF Skin Cyst-

The cause of many types of cysts is unknown. The causes of the following types of cysts are listed below:

1.Epidermoid cysts: Caused by proliferation of epidermal cells within the dermis.
2.Epidermal inclusion: Occurs in response to an injury. The injured skin gets tucked in and forms a sac that is lined by healthy epidermal cells that continue to mature.
3.Trichilemmal cyst: This is an inherited condition.
4.Steatocystoma: Occur due to an inherited disorder affecting the sebaceous (oil or fat) duct within the hair follicle.
5.Dermoid cyst: A developmental error.
6.Ganglion cyst: Caused by degeneration of the mucoid connective tissue of a joint.
7.Fluid-filled cyst in a mucous membrane: Occlusion of the opening of a mucous gland in the (lip, vulva, vagina).
8.Pseudocysts: Formed by occlusion of the follicle by keratin and sebum. These cysts are not surrounded by a capsule and are common in individuals with acne.

Other factors that can cause cysts are:

1.Infection
2.Chronic inflammatory condition
3.Tumors
4.Genetic condition

What are the signs and symptoms of Cyst?

1.Pink, or skin-coloured
2.Firm

Most cysts are symptomless, however in the event of infection you can experience the following and you should seek medical attention:

1.Pain
2.Swollen
3.Red
4.Foul-smelling with pus
5.Oozing and crusting

What are the Types of Cyst?

1.Epidermoid cyst: These cysts occur on the face, neck, trunk, and any areas with little hair. They present as firm, round, and skin-coloured nodules (elevated bumps greater than 1 cm) and commonly appear during adulthood.

2.Trichilemmal cyst (Pilar cyst): These cysts commonly present on the scalp, however they can also appear on the face, neck, trunk, and extremities. These cysts are firm, round or oval nodules which contain white keratin. Affected individuals often have multiple cysts and they often present in middle-aged individuals.

3.Steatocystoma (steatocystoma simplex): These cysts appear on the chest, upper arms, axillae, neck, scrotum, and vulva. These cysts are movable, smooth, and flesh-coloured/yellow and are between 3-30 mm in diameter. They often present in adolescents and individuals in their 20s.

4.Dermoid cyst: This type of cyst can include skin, teeth, cartilage, and bone. Most present on the face, neck, scalp, and most commonly around the eyelid, forehead, and eyebrows. It is often skin-coloured and can be either hard or soft. This benign tumour forms during birth and may not present until adulthood.

5.Ganglion cyst: This often presents on the dorsal wrist (back of the hand/wrist) and it often appears in young to middle-aged adults, however they are three times more common in women. They range from 2-4 cm in diameter and are firm.

6.Pseudocyst: These cysts are not surrounded by a capsule and commonly present in acne. They often occur on the face, chest, and back.

How long does it exist?

Minor cysts will resolve on their own and others will require surgical removal by a doctor. Some cysts can remain unchanged for a long time or may return in the future.

What remedies can be done at home?

1.Hot water compress: Soak a cloth in heated water and apply this cloth to the cyst for about 20 minutes. Repeat this several times a day.
2.Tea tree oil
3.Castor oil
4.Apple cider vinegar
5.Aloe Vera

NOTE: Do not try to remove the cyst or pop it yourself. This will increase your chance of getting an infection.

MEDICAL TREATMENT-

1.Incision and drainage: Swollen cysts can be drained by your doctor.
2.Intralesional injection: Usually performed with triamcinolone (glucocorticoid)
3.Infected cysts: Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the underlying infection.
4.Cancerous cysts: Your doctor will surgically remove your cyst which may leave a scar on your skin.

Diagnosis of Cyst

Cysts have typical clinical characteristics and can be identified visually. If a cyst is surgically removed your doctor will often perform a histological examination.

Differential Diagnosis

1.Dermal nevus: a well-defined raised bump on the skin
2.Cherry hemangioma: a raised bump on the skin that occurs as a result of abnormal development of blood vessels
3.Pyogenic granuloma: a skin bump that occurs as a result of a vascular tumor
4.Molluscum contagiosum: a viral infection that causes raised bumps on the skin
What to follow and avoid
5.Avoid touching, scratching, puncturing, squeezing or draining the cyst.
6.Drain and heal the cyst naturally by putting a warm cloth on that area.
7.In order to avoid the infection you should keep the affected area clean.
8.You can use Turmeric as it is very effective in breaking the cyst and bring the affected area into a normal state. For this you can Boil half teaspoon of turmeric with 1 cup of water and when it cool down, drink this mixture. It should be done for at least 10 days or make a paste of turmeric and water and apply it directly on the cyst.
9.Stay hydrated or Drink plenty of water as it helps to eliminate the toxins out from the body.
10.Maintain hygiene i.e. keep the affected area clean.
11.Try to use a clean and washed cloth to clean the cyst.
12.For cleaning the hair on the affected skin, you must use hygienic blades and wax.
13.Cyst pops by its own- wash it properly with the running water and clean it with antibacterial soap.
14.Avoid squeezing or scratching of the cyst to bring out the pus as it passes the infection to the other body parts as it may also lead to bleeding.
15.Avoid direct sun exposure.

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the nervous system (Brain, Spinal Cord, and Optic Nerves) and disrupts communication between the brain and body. It can lead to severe problems such as facial paralysis, visual disorder, muscle control, balance, and other basic functions of the body. In this condition, myelin sheath of the nerves in central nervous system which covers and protects the nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord is damaged.

SYMPTOMS OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

SYMPTOMS OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

1.Fatigue, weakness and tiredness
2.Muscle spasms/weakness
3.Impairment in muscle activity
4.Difficulty in walking
5.Loss of appetite, burps and bloating
6.Blurred vision/ double vision
7.Numbness or tingling sensations
8.Mood swings and cloudy thoughts
9.Poor bowel/bladder control
10.Inability in holding thing and tremors
11.Sexual weakness
12.Inflammation of the optic nerve
13.Digestive problems

CAUSES OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS-

The important cells of the body are destroyed by the immune cells results in the disruption of nerve signals to the intended target. And this causes the disease- multiple sclerosis.

According to Ayurveda this medical condition is caused by kapha and Pitta doshas. Pitta dosha can adversely affect the myelin sheath. In Ayurveda, Multiple Sclerosis is termed as Kapha Roga.

TYPES OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

1.Relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis
2.Primary-progressive Multiple Sclerosis
3.Progressive-relapsing Multiple Sclerosis
4.Secondary-progressive Multiple Sclerosis

DIAGNOSIS OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

1.Neurological examination
2.Brain MRI scan

AYURVEDA ABOUT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

1.The ayurvedic treatment for Multiple Sclerosis is based on this observation.
2.The improper digestion can lead to the mixing of undigested food (Ama) with accumulated doshas (toxins) in the body.
3.The condition of the patient will depend on the amount of the mixture collected in the body.
4.Ayurvedic treatment of Multiple Sclerosis depends on the severity of toxins (Ama) in the body.

SHODHANA CHIKITSA (PURIFICATION THERAPY)

1.This therapy refers to any Ayurvedic cleansing (detoxification) therapy that is used to remove excess doshas and ama (toxins) from the body.
2.Shodhana chikitsa also known as body detoxification therapy.
3.Pure herbal oils and medicines are used in this procedure.
4.This is particularly recommended in cases where toxins have accumulated to the point that the body is unable to expel them naturally.

Shodhana chikitsa (panchkarma) treaments are-

1.Langhana (fasting)
2.Lekhana (scraping fat)
3.Vamana (induced vomiting)
4.Virechana (therapeutic purgation)
5.Basti (enema using medicated oils)
6.Rakta Moksha (therapeutic bloodletting)
7.Nasya (nasal cleansing with herbs and oils)

SHAMANA CHIKITSA (PALLIATIVE CARE)

1.Shaman chikitsa is used for a longer period to cure the illness.
2.This therapy is generally prescribed for weak or young patients only.
3.These medications help to correct imbalances of rogas, agni, and dhatu through simple oral and
External Applications.

There are several types of Shaman chiktsa. They are-

1.Deepana
2.Pachana
3.Kshudha nigrah
4.Thrisha nigraha
5.Vyayam
6.Atap sevan (heat service)
7.Marut sevan (wind service)

INCREDIBLE HERBS FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

ASHWAGANDHA (WITHANIA SOMNIFERA)-

1.This Ayurvedic herb is known by many names, including-Indian ginseng Asana, withania somnifera etc.
2.Its berries, roots, and extracts are used for anxiety, chronic pain, fatigue, inflammation and stress relief.
3.Ashwagandha can effectively treat multiple sclerosis or its symptoms because of its brain protective ability.

TURMERIC

1.Turmeric is a popular spice containing curcuminoids which can interact and modulate multiple cell signaling pathways and prevent the development of various autoimmune neurological diseases including MS.
2.Curcumin is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that could modulate cell cycle regulatory proteins, enzymes cytokin related disorders including MS.

PEPPERMINT

1.Peppermint has long been used to promote digestive health, treat muscle and nerve pain, relieve headaches and ease nausea or stress.
2.Peppermint is clinically helpful for the treatment of Multiple sclerosis.

CHAMOMILE

1.Chamomile is very good Source of antioxidants.
2.It can ease tension and relax muscles by reducing inflammation.
3.Chamomile also used in skin conditions, sleeplessness or anxiety, stomach upset and gas or
diarrhea.
4.Its common use and availability in a variety of forms make chamomile a popular remedy for multiple sclerosis.

VITAMINS FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Following vitamins play a significant role in the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

1.Vitamin A
2.Vitamin B-1 (thiamine)
3.Vitamin B-6
4.Vitamin B-12
5.Vitamin C
6.Vitamin D
7.Vitamin E

DIET AND LIFESTYLE

1.Detox regularly with the help of Ayurveda detox principles.
2.Healthy exposure to natural sunlight
3.Control sodium intake.
4.Keep your body well hydrate
5.Consume water rich fruits and vegetables.
6.Increase your antioxidants intake
7.Consume foods that are rich in antioxidants such as fruits and green vegetables
8.Avoid fatty foods, packaged and processed food etc.
9.Limit acidic foods
10.Keep yourself stress free, calm and relaxed.
11.Avoid Self Medication such as pain killers’, anti-inflammatory medicines sleeping pills etc.