Page:Sushruta Samhita Vol 2.djvu/68

12 The disease, in which the extremely agitated Vayu affects the nerve chains (Dhamanis) which spread either in the left or in the right side of the body, whether in the upward, downward, or lateral direction, making them lax and vigourless, and in which the joints of the other side of the body become useless and inoperative, is called Pakshaghata (Hemiplegia) by eminent physicians. The patient, the whole or half of whose body has become (almost) inoperative and lost all sensibility, but who retains his consciousness so long as there remains the least vestige of vitality in the affected part, suddenly falls down and expires. 53 — 54.

PrognOSis:—A case of Pakshaghata (Hemi-plegia), brought about through the single action of the enraged or agitated Vayu of the body, can be cured only with the greatest care and difficulty. A case of the same disease, engendered by the aggravated Vayu in conjunction with the deranged Pittam or Kapham, proves amenable to medicine (Sadhya). It becomes incurable when caused through the waste of the root principles (Dhatu) of the body. 55.

Apatantrakah (Convulsions):—The Vayu, aggravated (by its specifically exciting factors and principles) and dislodged from its natural seat or receptacle in the body in consequence thereof, courses upwards and finds lodgment in the regions of the head, heart and temples. It presses upon those parts and gives rise to convulsive movements of hands and legs, or at times bends them down.

Symptoms:—The patient lies with his eyes closely shut, or stares with a sort of fixed or vacant gaze, the eyes remaining fixed or immovable. The patient loses all perception, and groans. Respiration becomes difficult, or symptoms of temporary asphyxia