Symptom Management Research Articles

Colchicine as a treatment option for inherited epidermolysis bullosa.

Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is a rare inherited multisystem disorder. Colchicine is a medication classified as an anti-gout agent and anti-inflammatory drug. Currently, treatment options for EB are limited, with treatment focused on symptom management with no approved systemic treatments available. The article reports three cases of colchicine use in ameliorating EB wounds and systemic inflammation.

Exploring early postoperative core symptoms in Chinese patients with primary liver cancer: a cross-sectional and longitudinal network analysis.

Patients with primary liver cancer (PLC) experience a range of symptoms in the early postoperative period. Symptoms include cancer-related symptoms and adverse effects of treatment. Exploring the core symptoms and their dynamics in the early post-hepatectomy patients may help provide better symptom management programs. The purpose of this study was to identify the core symptoms in early post-hepatectomy patients and to explore the trajectory of their dynamics. During the period from March 2021 to September 2022, a total of 281 patients diagnosed with PLC and undergoing radical curative surgery were recruited from the hepatobiliary surgery departments of two hospitals in Eastern China, among whom 249 individuals (88.6%) agreed to participate in the study. A comprehensive symptom assessment was administered to the patients 1-2days after surgery (T1) and 1-2days before discharge (T2). Network analysis was used to identify core symptoms in early post-hepatectomy patients based on symptom severity. The network analysis identified the core symptoms of dry mouth, pain, abdominal distension, the lack of appetite, and nausea at T1. In contrast, at T2, the lack of appetite, pain, shortness of breath, and disturbed sleep were revealed. At the two early time points, while the results of the network structure test showed no statistically significant difference in the overall symptom network structure, there was a significant difference in the results for the core symptoms. Our study demonstrates the need to identify core symptoms in the early post-hepatectomy to improve symptom management in PLC patients. It is crucial to apply network analysis as an essential component of cancer care.

Multicomponent Dietary Supplementation: Impact on Tear Secretion and Ocular Surface Inflammation in Dry Eye Syndrome Patients

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a prevalent ocular condition characterized by tear film instability, inflammation, and discomfort, affecting millions worldwide. DES is related to oxidative stress imbalance and ocular surface inflammation, which are important factors in the development of the condition. Recent studies have demonstrated that fish oil, lutein, and zeaxanthin possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study investigated the efficacy of a multicomponent dietary supplement in improving tear secretion and mitigating ocular surface inflammation in patients with DES. It was an open-label intervention trial. In total, 52 participants were randomly assigned to control (n = 23) and supplement (45 mg/day eicosapentaenoic acid, 30 mg/day docosahexaenoic acid, 30 mg/day lutein, and 1.8 mg/day zeaxanthin; n = 29) groups for 12 weeks. The participants were evaluated using Schirmer’s test and the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) as ocular surface parameters. Moreover, blood or tear oxidative stress, antioxidant capacities, and tear inflammatory indicators were measured at weeks 0 and 12. The results indicated a significant increase in tear secretion and a significant reduction in OSDI scores in the supplement group. Additionally, inflammatory markers, such as interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8, significantly decreased after the intervention. However, the OSDI of the supplement group significantly improved by 6.60 points (β = −6.60, p = 0.01). These findings support the potential of targeted nutritional supplementation as a safe and effective strategy for alleviating DES symptoms, offering an alternative to conventional treatments that exclusively focus on symptom management. This study highlights the role of specific nutrients in modulating tear production and inflammation, thereby providing a foundation for dietary approaches to DES treatment. Future research should explore the long-term benefits of such interventions and their impact on overall ocular health.

The Stepping Stone Clubhouse Evaluation: Exploring Members' Experiences, Service Engagement, and Perceived Impact of the Clubhouse International Model.

The Clubhouse Model of Psychosocial Rehabilitation provides non-clinical social support for adults living with a diagnosed mental illness or self-reported mental ill-health (referred to as 'members'). The Stepping Stone Clubhouse in Brisbane, Australia was evaluated between August 2022 and August 2023 using a participatory action research approach. Data was sourced from member surveys, member interviews, and an existing Clubhouse Member Database. Outcomes included members' self-reported psychosocial recovery, social connectedness, quality of life, frequency of hospitalizations, and their attainment of employment and/or education aspirations. In this cross-sectional evaluation, it was hypothesized that existing members (membership: 11 months - 28 years) would report better outcomes than new members (membership: 0-14 days). In total, 161 existing members and 76 new members completed a survey. Twenty-three members also participated in a semi-structured interview. Participants were aged on average 47.1 years (± 13.5), 62% were male and 31% had a primary diagnosis of schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder. Existing members reported better scores than new members for: three of the four psychosocial recovery domains (Functional Recovery: 78.0% vs. 74.0%, p = 0.01; Symptom Management Recovery 69.5% vs. 65.2%, p = 0.03; Social Recovery 74.3% vs. 70.0%, p = 0.01); social connection with other members (38.1 vs. 32.2, p = 0.03) and staff (44.5 vs. 38.1, p = 0.02); quality-of-life summary scores (4.6 vs. 4.1, p = 0.01), and rates of mental health-related hospitalization (16% vs. 41%, p < 0.01). Existing members were also more likely to be in some form of employment, compared to new members (p = 0.01). There were no significant differences between existing and new members for their educational goals, with 58% of each group wanting further formal education. Stepping Stone members have better outcomes than members who have recently joined the Clubhouse. This evaluation was successful because it intentionally built evaluative capacity and empowered member-centric processes.

Occlusal Appliance Therapy for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Mechanisms, Efficacy, and Limitations

Disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are chronic conditions that involve pain, muscle spasm, and dysfunction of the joint and surrounding structures. Occlusal appliances have come to be regarded as essential tools in the non-surgical treatment of these disorders as they help in the management of symptoms and protection of teeth and the structures of the TMJ. In various types of reviews of occlusal appliances, including stabilization splints, anterior and posterior bite planes, repositioning devices, and soft appliances, are discussed in detail with regard to their mechanism of action, indications, and limitations. Improvements in the material and the fabrication method, such as printing, have enhanced CAD/CAM systems accuracy and comfort, as well as the patients’ cooperation in the use of these appliances. Thus, combining occlusal appliances with other treatments, including physiotherapy and Botox, offers a systemic approach to TMJ treatment, dealing with both appliances mechanical help and muscular factors. reduction Although there are certain risks involved, like occlusal changes and discomfort, which need close observation and patient counselling, of occlusal pain, muscle hyperactivity, and joint loading. This review focuses on the need to choose the right appliance, make the right fabrication and to ensure that there is a follow up to check on the progress of the patient. Further developments and multi-disciplinary work will continue to improve the effectiveness and applicability of occlusal appliances in the treatment of TMJ disorders.

Transforming cancer care: The vital role of palliative support

Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality globally, with the increasing cancer burden in both developed and developing countries, including India. Palliative care, which focuses on alleviating the symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients, plays a crucial role in cancer management. Despite its significance, the integration of palliative care into cancer treatment in India faces numerous challenges, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is limited.This study aims to examine the role of palliative care in the comprehensive management of cancer patients, particularly in India. It seeks to explore the specific needs of elderly cancer patients, assess common barriers to effective palliative care, and evaluate the impact of home-based palliative care models in improving patient outcomes.Data was collected through a combination of literature review and patient surveys, focusing on cancer care and palliative needs in India. Assessment tools such as the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) and the Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) were employed to evaluate symptom burden and prognosis. The study also analysed operational strategies for implementing home-based palliative care and the role of multidisciplinary teams in enhancing care delivery.The study found that palliative care significantly improves the quality of life for cancer patients by addressing their physical, emotional, and social needs. Home-based palliative care emerged as an effective model, particularly for patients in rural areas, where access to specialised healthcare is limited. Challenges such as a lack of trained personnel, inadequate awareness of palliative care, and logistical difficulties in rural settings were highlighted. The use of assessment tools such as ESAS and PPS helped in better symptom management and tailoring care to individual needs.Palliative care plays a critical role in the holistic management of cancer patients, particularly in resource-limited settings like India. The study underscores the need for more widespread integration of palliative care into the healthcare system, with a focus on home-based care and interdisciplinary collaboration. Increased awareness, training, and policy support are essential for improving access to and the quality of palliative care services, enhancing the well-being of cancer patients across the country.

The Role and the Regulation of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Narrative Review

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Its pathogenesis involves multiple factors, including visceral hypersensitivity and immune activation. NLRP3 inflammasome is part of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor (NLR) family, a crucial component of the innate immune system. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that inhibiting NLRP3 reduces visceral sensitivity and IBS symptoms, like abdominal pain, and diarrhea, suggesting that targeting the NLRP3 might represent a novel therapeutic approach for IBS. This review aims to assess the NLRP3 inhibitors (tranilast, β-hydroxybutyrate, Chang-Kang-fang, paeoniflorin, coptisine, BAY 11-7082, and Bifidobacterium longum), highlighting the signaling pathways, and their potential role in IBS symptoms management was assessed. Although premature, knowledge of the action of synthetic small molecules, phytochemicals, organic compounds, and probiotics might make NLRP3 a new therapeutic target in the quiver of physicians’ therapeutic choices for IBS symptoms management.

Intrathecal Baclofen Pump Wean and Risk of Exposure in a Large TBSA Burn Wound Patient: A Case Report.

Burn injuries in patients with significant pre-existing medical conditions provide unique challenges in both medical management and surgical planning. Spasticity, if left untreated, can be one of the most disabling consequences of a neurologic injury. Treatment is largely dependent on pharmacologic management with anti-spasmodic agents such as baclofen. Baclofen's effectiveness when taken orally is often limited by its systemic side effects, which mostly affect the central nervous system (CNS). Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) can circumvent these intolerable adverse effects while achieving symptom relief via a more targeted therapeutic route. However, abrupt cessation of chronic baclofen use can precipitate an acute life-threatening withdrawal syndrome. We present a case of a 47-year-old female who sustained 54% total body surface area (TBSA) full-thickness flame burns to the circumferential bilateral lower extremities, left arm, left anterior and posterior trunk, flank, and perineum. She had a pre-morbid C5 spinal cord injury resulting in spastic paraplegia for which she had an ITB pump implanted into her left abdominal wall for symptom management. This pump was directly beneath her operative burn wounds. We discuss the complex issues that were encountered throughout her care related to medication reservoir supply, life-threatening risk of baclofen withdrawal, pain-specialist availability, medical-legal barriers, and the multi-staged surgical plan for coverage, balancing proper wound debridement with risk of device exposure and infection. To our knowledge, this is the only case report detailing the cohort of obstacles that may be associated with these devices, specifically with burn patients.

The Impact of Non-pharmacologic Traditional Chinese Medicine on Health-Related Quality of Life and Symptom Management in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Breast cancer remains a prevalent malignancy among women globally. Survivors often experience diminished quality of life, pain, and sleep disturbances after treatment and suffer feelings of isolation. Non-pharmacological traditional Chinese medicine (NP-TCM) interventions have been increasingly applied in clinical practice, yet their efficacy requires further clarification. Objective: This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of NP-TCM interventions (e.g. Qigong, Tai Chi, Baduanjin) on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in breast cancer patients. Methods: Randomized controlled trials published between 1999 and 2024 were retrieved from various databases. Studies comparing NP-TCM and control groups in quality of life and other outcomes were included. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. 14 RCTs with 688 patients were included. Results: NP-TCM interventions significantly improved overall quality of life (SMD=0.13, 95%CI 0.24~0.51, P&lt;0.001). Specifically, Baduanjin demonstrated substantial benefits (SMD=0.82, P&lt;0.001). NP-TCM also enhanced sleep (SMD=1.16, P=0.04) and alleviated anxiety (SMD=-0.46, P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: NP-TCM interventions effectively improved the HRQOL and certain symptoms for breast cancer patients, providing practical adjunctive therapies. However, study qualities require optimization.

Multidisciplinary nursing care in chronic Chagas disease: a scoping review

BackgroundNurses provide essential care for symptomatic chronic Chagas disease carriers, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, offering crucial support, symptom management, medication administration, and monitoring to enhance their health-related quality of life.ObjectiveTo increase healthcare professionals’ awareness of the critical role played by high-quality care in the management of patients with chronic Chagas disease.MethodsThis scoping review employed the PRISMA-ScR method as a framework for article selection. A comprehensive search was conducted in the Scielo Brazil, PubMed, and LILACS databases, using the keywords “Chagas disease,” “nursing,” “nursing care”, and “nursing assistance” in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. The search covered the period from 1980 to 2022. The initial review identified a total of 633 studies, from which 17 studies were ultimately selected for analysis. These included two observational studies, two case series, and seven literature reviews.ResultsThese studies underscored the crucial role of nurses in supporting patients with chronic Chagas disease, particularly those with cardiac and/or digestive manifestations. Additionally, interventions pertaining to neonates with the infection and users of pacemakers/implantable cardioverter defibrillators were examined.ConclusionNurses play a critical role within a multidisciplinary care team in improving the health-related quality of life for individuals living with chronic Chagas disease, irrespective of the cardiac or digestive form of the disease. Therefore, it is essential to assess both the subjective and objective needs of infected individuals in order to develop tailored nursing care plans that address their individualized needs and clinical conditions.

Treatment options to break the cycle of recurrent pericarditis.

This review provides a contemporary, evidence-based update on the pathophysiological mechanisms and rapidly evolving therapeutic options for recurrent pericarditis. Recent studies have elucidated the pathogenesis of recurrent pericarditis, identifying autoinflammation as a key mechanism and interleukin-1 (IL-1) as a central modulator of the inflammatory cascade. Multiple clinical trials have investigated novel therapeutic approaches, particularly focusing on IL-1 inhibition. The recent FDA approval of IL-1 pathway blockade for recurrent pericarditis has revolutionized treatment, offering patients significantly improved quality of life and symptom management. The enhanced understanding of the autoinflammatory nature of recurrent pericarditis, coupled with groundbreaking advances in targeted therapies, has transformed the treatment landscape for affected patients. The emergence of IL-1 inhibitors as an effective therapeutic option promises substantial improvements in clinical outcomes and patient well being. Clinicians must familiarize themselves with these new treatments, their efficacy, and potential limitations to optimize patient care and guide therapeutic decision-making in this challenging condition.

Identifying core symptom clusters based on symptom distress levels in patients with maintenance hemodialysis: a cross-sectional network analysis

Background To explore the symptom clusters of patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis and construct a symptom network to identify the core symptoms and core symptom clusters, to provide reference for precise symptom management. Methods Conveniently selected 354 patients with maintenance hemodialysis were surveyed cross-sectionally using the general information questionnaire, the Dialysis Symptom Index and the Kidney Disease Questionnaire. Symptom clusters were extracted using exploratory factor analysis, and core symptom clusters were identified using hierarchical regression and network analysis. Results The most common and severe symptoms were fatigue, dry skin and itching, and the most distressing symptoms were fatigue, itching and trouble falling asleep. Within the symptom network, worry (r s = 1.0) had the highest strength, trouble staying asleep(r c = 0.01) had the highest closeness, and fatigue had the highest betweenness (r b = 30) and bridge strength (r bs = 0.53). A total of four symptom clusters were extracted, namely psychological symptom cluster, sleep disorder symptom cluster, uremia-related symptom cluster, and neurological symptom cluster. Hierarchical regression results showed that the psychological symptom cluster had the greatest impact on patients’ quality of life. Conclusions Fatigue was the most severe symptom and the bridge symptom, the uremia-related symptom cluster caused the greatest distress for patients, worry was the core symptom, and the psychological symptom cluster was identified as the core cluster. Clinical staff can provide effective symptom management and improve patient symptom burden by establishing intervention strategies centered on these results.

Pharmacogenomics and symptom management in palliative and supportive care: A scoping review

ContextPharmacogenomics (PGx) is an area of expanding research, which could indicate whether an individual is likely to benefit from a symptom control medication. Palliative and supportive care (PSC) could be...

Patient and caregiver experiences of palliative care co-management in oncology.

Historically, patients with cancer were referred to palliative care near the end of life. In recent years, the increased integration of palliative care throughout the entire trajectory of illness has helped patients with cancer better manage their symptoms and improve QOL. However, it is unknown how patients think about the presence and role of earlier, integrated palliative care. This study explored how patients and caregivers experience cancer care in the context of palliative care co-management with oncology. We conducted interviews with 18 patients and 13 caregivers to investigate perspectives, attitudes, and experiences surrounding cancer care, specifically with their experiences of co-management with a palliative care outpatient clinic and oncology. Using grounded theory, we identified a typology of patient and caregiver approaches when discussing the care they received and/or desired. Our data revealed 3 approaches to thinking about palliative care in cancer care. While some participants embraced the "Cure Centrality" approach, caring only about fighting the disease, others adopted a "Quality-of-Life (QOL) Centrality" approach, desiring their health-care team to prioritize a broader range of concerns. A third approach, The "Dual Centrality" approach, espoused values from both approaches. While co-management of palliative care and oncology is complementary by design, our data suggest that patients and caregivers take a variety of approaches to their copresence. For some patients, palliative care served as an important legitimizing resource for patients desiring expanded priorities in their care (e.g. higher value on QOL and symptom management) and enabling patient-centered care.

Effect of a Peaceful End-of-Life Care Program on Perceived Good Death in People With Advanced Cancer and Their Family Caregivers.

Early integration of palliative care benefits both people with advanced cancer and their family caregivers, yet research on holistic end-of-life care and advance care planning remains limited. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effect of a peaceful end-of-life care program on perceived good death outcomes in people with advanced cancer and their family caregivers. Secondary objectives included exploring the program's effect on the quality relationship and end-of-life care knowledge among family caregivers. In this quasi-experimental design with repeated measures, 122 participants were enrolled. On the basis of the Theory of the Peaceful End of Life, the experimental group received a 4-week program comprising health education, self-care for symptom management, advance care planning, psychosocial support, and family involvement plus standard care, whereas the control group received standard care alone. The Good Death Inventory was the primary measurement tool. The results showed a significant improvement in perceived good death, quality relationships, and end-of-life care knowledge in the experimental group, with no such improvements observed in the control group. The program improved good death outcomes, caregiver relationships, and end-of-life care knowledge. Therefore, early initiation of this program is recommended to optimize its benefits.

Integrative bioinformatics approach identifies novel drug targets for hyperaldosteronism, with a focus on SHMT1 as a promising therapeutic candidate

Primary aldosteronism (PA), characterized by autonomous aldosterone overproduction, is a major cause of secondary hypertension with significant cardiovascular complications. Current treatments mainly focus on symptom management rather than addressing underlying mechanisms. This study aims to discover novel therapeutic targets for PA using integrated bioinformatics and experimental validation approaches. We employed a systematic approach combining: gene identification through transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS); causal inference using summary data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) and two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses; additional analyses included phenome-wide association analysis, enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks, drug repurposing, molecular docking and clinical validation through aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) tissue. Through systematic screening and prioritization, we identified 163 PA-associated genes, of which seven emerged as potential drug targets: CEP104, HIP1, TONSL, ZNF100, SHMT1, and two long non-coding RNAs (AC006369.2 and MRPL23-AS1). SHMT1 was identified as the most promising target, showing significantly elevated expression in APAs compared to adjacent non-tumorous tissues. Drug repurposing analysis identified four potential SHMT1-targeting compounds (Mimosine, Pemetrexed, Leucovorin, and Irinotecan), supported by molecular docking studies. The integration of multiple bioinformatics methods and experimental validation successfully identified novel drug targets for hyperaldosteronism. SHMT1, in particular, represents a promising candidate for future therapeutic development. These findings provide new opportunities for developing causative treatments for PA, though further clinical validation is warranted.

Advances in Gene Therapy for Rare Diseases: Targeting Functional Haploinsufficiency Through AAV and mRNA Approaches

Most rare diseases (RDs) encompass a diverse group of inherited disorders that affect millions of people worldwide. A significant proportion of these diseases are driven by functional haploinsufficiency, which is caused by pathogenic genetic variants. Currently, most treatments for RDs are limited to symptom management, emphasizing the need for therapies that directly address genetic deficiencies. Recent advancements in gene therapy, particularly with adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) and lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated messenger RNA (mRNA), have introduced promising therapeutic approaches. AAV vectors offer durable gene expression, extensive tissue tropism, and a safety profile that makes them a leading choice for gene delivery; however, limitations remain, including packaging size and immune response. In contrast, mRNA therapeutics, formulated in LNPs, facilitate transient protein expression without the risk of genomic integration, supporting repeated dosing and pharmacokinetic control, though with less long-term expression than AAVs. This review analyzes the latest developments in AAV and mRNA technologies for rare monogenic disorders, focusing on preclinical and clinical outcomes, vector design, and delivery challenges. We also address key regulatory and immunological considerations impacting therapeutic success. Together, these advancements in AAV and mRNA technology underscore a new era in RD treatment, providing innovative tools to target the genetic root of these diseases and expanding therapeutic approaches for patients who currently face limited medical options.

Atrial Functional Mitral Regurgitation: Definition, Mechanisms, and Treatment Perspectives.

This review aims to explore the complex interplay between atrial functional mitral regurgitation (AFMR), atrial fibrillation (AF), and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The goal is to define these conditions, examine their underlying mechanisms, and discuss treatment perspectives, particularly addressing diagnostic challenges. Recent research highlights the rising prevalence of AFMR, now accounting for nearly one-third of significant mitral regurgitation cases. Advances in percutaneous treatment options have improved management for vulnerable HFpEF patients, but long-term outcomes remain unclear, and symptom relief is inconsistent. AF and HFpEF share the left atrium as a common pathological substrate, with progressive LA remodeling contributing to AFMR. Diagnostic limitations hinder effective symptom management with current mitral valve interventions. Future research should focus on better diagnostic tools to determine the contributions of valvular disease, arrhythmia, or myocardial dysfunction to clinical outcomes, as we currently lack definitive tests to establish this connection.

Young, Empowered & strong (YES): a study protocol paper for a randomized controlled trial of an mHealth symptom monitoring and self-management intervention for adolescent and young adult (AYA) breast cancer survivors

BackgroundCompared to older adults with breast cancer (BC), adolescents and young adults (AYAs) develop more aggressive disease necessitating more intensive therapy with curative intent, which is disruptive to planned life trajectories. The burden of unmet needs among AYA BC survivors exists in two domains: (1) symptoms (e.g., sexual problems, anxiety, fatigue, stress, hot flashes) and (2) AYA concerns (e.g., fertility, genetics, relationships, economic attainment). Improved attention to concerns and symptoms may improve symptom management and quality of life. The Young, Empowered and Strong (YES) trial tests the efficacy of a 9-month, multicomponent digital health intervention that includes monthly assessments of prevalent symptoms, a chat room, and journal to engage and support AYAs with BC by providing tailored information, resources, and support outside of the clinical setting.MethodsYES is a multicenter, randomized controlled trial across three academic institutions in the United States with 400 participants randomized to either the YES intervention or usual care arm. Inclusion criteria include biologically female; 15–39 years of age at diagnosis of stage 0-III BC; within 3 years of diagnosis; no known evidence of recurrence; no prior history of new malignancy since initial BC diagnosis; and ability to access medical records from treatment site. All participants complete REDCap surveys at baseline, and at 3, 6, and 9 months post-enrollment. The primary outcome is quality of life as measured by the Quality of Life in Adult Cancer Survivors Scale (QLACS), with changes from baseline to 6-months in QLACS scores, compared by arm. Secondary outcomes include patient reported AYA concerns/needs, emotional symptoms, general health, physical symptoms, and health behaviors,DiscussionStudy findings will provide valuable insight into the ability of the YES digital health intervention to address symptoms and concerns of AYA BC survivors and assist them to track and self-manage their own symptoms, concerns, and needs related to their cancer outside of the clinic.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov, NCT04906200, registered May 13, 2021.

COMPARATIVE CLINICAL EVALUATION OF VAMANA KARMA ALONE AND ALONG WITH PANCHAKOLA PHANTA IN HYPOTHYROIDISM (AGNIMAN-DYA)

Background: The sedentary lifestyle and stress-filled modern era have led to alterations in the activities of the neuro-endocrine system, causing newer health challenges like thyroid disorder. Hypothyroidism is one of the lifestyle and endocrinal disorders. There is no direct reference to the thyroid in Ayurveda classics, but all the metabolic processes of the body are under the control of Agni. Vamana Karma, followed by Panchakola Phanta, can treat Agnimandya. Aim: To compare the efficacy of Vamana Karma alone and along with Panchakola Phanta in Hypothyroidism (Agnimandya). Materials and Methods: A total of 40 patients of Hypothyroidism in the age group of 20 to 60 years fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected for trial &amp; randomly distributed in Group A and Group B. Results: Statistically, Group B was found more effective than Group A in the management of symptoms of Hypothyroidism (Agnimandya). Discussion: Panchakola having Ushna, Tikshna, Laghu, Ruksha Guna, Katu Rasa, Katu Vipaka and Ushna Virya. It has Kaphavata Shamaka, Deepana, Pachana, Rochana, Lekhana, Sroto-Vishodhana and Shothahara properties. Panchakola is regarded as one of the most effective medications for treating Mandagni. In Agnimandya, Panchakola Phanta is useful for Amapachana and to increase the Agni.