Category: Acidity/ Heartburn

Abstract

Strongyloides stercoralis is a very small nematode which parasites the mucosa of the upper part of the small intestine, often in large numbers.the eggs hatch in the bowel but only larvae are passed in the feces. In moist soil they moult and become the infective filariform larvae. After penetrating human skin they undergo a development cycle similar to that of hookworms but the female worms burrow into the mucosa and submucosa. Some larvae in the intestine may develop into filariform larvae which may then penetrate the mucosa or perianal skin and lead to auto infection and a very persistent infection. In this article we will mainly discuss the hyperinfection due to  Strongyloides stercoralis and what symptoms it creates along with its Ayurvedic management.

Introduction

Strongyloides is the parasite that has more prevalence in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Hyperinfection syndrome due to these parasites is ensured in patients that are having imapired cell mediated immunity. Imapaired cell mediated immunity is common in patients who are being administered with steroidal treatment and with drugs which are responsible for immune system suppression. Hyperinfection syndrome only happens when there is acceleration of the normal life cycle of S. stercoralis increasing the worm burden within the reproductive route.Then wide spread of the larvae of this parasite takes place out of the gut area involving organs like heart, liver, brain and urinary tract.

Clinical manifestation of Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection syndrome

The symptoms are similar to classic strongyloidiasis which includes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, GI hemorrhage, cough, fever and difficulty in breathing. But in case of hyperinfection with accelerated life cycle of parasite catastrophic clinical manifestations like shock, intravascular coagulation, meningitis, respiratory and renal failure.

Moreover, major anatomical changes take place in the duodenum and jejunum. The parasites can be identified in the crypts of lieberkuhn and in mucosa and deposited eggs are sometimes present in the depths of these burrows. The inflammatory action is quite variable and only in the more severe instances is there a mixed leukocytic infiltration, characteristically containing many eosinophils. Much of this infiltration may be attributable to secondary infection.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of this condition is usually done after examining the stool. Sterile slides are made for filariform larvae. Due to accelerated activity usually parasites are being diagnosed in the stool test. Moreover, a complete blood count is done to take a complete idea of infection and its severity. Urine tests can also be advised.

Treatment

The first line of treatment for strongyloides include ivermectin which eradicated around 80% of parasites. Other agents include thiabendazole and albendazole. In case of shock patients need in door admission along with fluid replacement therapy. Administration of antibiotics through intravenous routes can also be done. If patients have low hemoglobin levels immediate administration of blood units is required.

Herbal Remedies by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a leading herbal manufacturing unit which manufactures herbal products that are very effective in managing multiple conditions. These products are manufactured using potent herbs and are prepared under the guidance of expert Ayurvedic doctors. The manufacturing team works under their guidance to avoid any kind of compromise with product quality. Our products do not contain any kind of fillers, additives, adulterants and are totally safe to use without any side effects. The herbal products are manufactured using potent and efficient herbs.

Following are the products offered by Planet Ayurveda for the management of Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection syndrome

1.  Wormistop capsules
2.  Sanjivani Vati
3.  Mahashankh Vati
4.  Digesto plan syrup
5.  Giloy Capsules
6.  Curcumin capsules

Products Description

1. Wormistop capsules

Wormistop has constituents like palash (Butea monosperma), tulsi (Ocimum sanctum),  sonth (Zingiber officinale) and vidang (Piper retrofractum). As the product name suggests it is very effective in removing parasites from the intestine and eradicates around 80-90% of worms from the human intestine. It also improves digestion and soothes the mucosa of the intestine.

Dose: Two capsules twice  a day after meals.

2. Sanjivani Vati

Sanjivani vati is known as a medication that infuses life. This is a classical ayurvedic formulation consisting of sonth (Zingiber officinale), haritaki (Termenalia chebula), giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) and many others. It helps in getting rid of accumulated endotoxins and also helps in removing worms from intestines. It creates such an environment in the bowel which is not fit for the survival parasite hence leading to parasite free bowel.

Dose: Two tablets twice a day after meals.

3. Mahashankh Vati

This is a classical formulation having constituents like pancha lavana (five types of salts), shankh bhasma (ashes of pearl), pippali (Piper longum)  and many others. These Help in reducing symptoms related to the digestive system like pain in abdomen, indigestion, worms in intestine, acidity and gastritis. Shankh bhasma in this is very effective in treating chronic constipation and also helps in removal of parasites from intestine by creating a non favourable environment.

Dose: Two tablets twice a day after meals.

4. Digesto plan syrup

Digesto plan syrup is an ultimate composition of herbs like amalaki (Emblica officinalis), haritaki (Terminalia chebula), bibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica) and others. This syrup is potent in reducing anorexia, indigestion and abdominal pain. It improves digestion and has abundant healing features. It helps in balancing toxins in the digestive system which creates a favorable environment for parasite growth.

Dose: Two tsp twice a day after meals.

5. Giloy Capsules

Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) is an amazing herb that helps in improving the immunity of the body. It also behaves as an immunomodulator in immune-compromised cases. Giloy is an amazing herb that works according to the way your body needs it due to its vichitra pratya rabdha property. Giloy is very much safe to use in any age group.

Dose: Two capsules twice a day after meals.

6. Curcumin capsules

Curcumin capsules are made from the curmin extract of haridra (Curcuma longa). Haridra has amazing properties like it behaves as an antibacterial, anthelmintic, and also bears analgesic features. This formulation is very effective in dragging out worms from the intestine and also helps in enhancing the immunity of the body.

Dose: Two capsules a day after meals.

Conclusion

Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection syndrome is a condition which ultimately is the result of strongyloides infection ignorance. Patients must stay alert and should notice general symptoms related to worm infestation because long term ignorance can be deadly.