Integrative Ayurvedic Approach in Early- Onset High Myopia with Congenital Nystagmus

Abstract

Paediatric high myopia is a significant cause of visual impairment and is often associated with prematurity, genetic factors, and secondary ocular conditions. A 2-month-old infant presented with poor eye contact and abnormal eye movements since birth. Ophthalmic evaluation revealed bilateral high myopia (−14.00 D), nystagmus, esotropia, and tessellated fundus. Based on ayurvedic correlation with Vatika timira, Samanya timira chikitsa was adopted as an adjunct to conventional management. The integrative treatment included spectacle correction, visual stimulation, ophthalmic follow-up, and Ayurvedic interventions comprising internal medications and Panchakarma procedures such as Kashayadhara, Shiropichu, Abhyanga, Pizhichil, Matravasti, and Sashtika pinda sweda. Serial assessments showed improvement in visual behaviour, progressing from light perception to fixation and object tracking. Retinoscopy demonstrated reduction in refractive error from −14.00 D to −9.00 D after five treatment courses. Although high myopia, nystagmus, and esotropia persisted, functional visual responses improved. This case suggests the potential supportive role of integrative Ayurvedic management in paediatric visual rehabilitation; however, further systematic studies are required to establish efficacy and safety.