According to Ayurveda, there are eight main types of diseases, which are called ashtau nidanani or eight causes of diseases. They are: Name Root cause Symptoms Location Jwara Aggravation of all three doshas (vata, pitta and kapha) due to improper diet, lifestyle, season, etc. Fever, chills, headache, body ache, loss of appetite, thirst, etc. Whole body Shvasa Aggravation of vata and kapha due to cold, dry, dusty or smoky air, excessive exertion, emotional stress, etc. Difficulty in breathing, wheezing, coughing, chest pain, etc. Respiratory system Kasa Aggravation of vata and kapha due to cold, damp or dusty weather, intake of cold or dry food or drinks, smoking, etc. Coughing, expectoration, sore throat, hoarseness of voice, etc. Respiratory system Pratishyaya Aggravation of kapha due to exposure to cold or humid air, intake of cold or sweet food or drinks, suppression of natural urges, etc. Nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, headache, etc. Nasal cavity Hikka Aggravation of vata due to irregular or excessive eating, drinking or talking, emotional stress, smoking, etc. Involuntary contraction of the diaphragm causing a sudden sound from the mouth. Diaphragm Chardi Aggravation of pitta due to intake of spicy, sour or incompatible food or drinks, emotional stress, exposure to heat or sun, etc. Nausea and vomiting of undigested food or bile. Stomach and esophagus Atisara Aggravation of pitta and vata due to intake of contaminated or unwholesome food or drinks, emotional stress, exposure to heat or cold, etc. Loose stools with or without mucus or blood. Intestines Arsha Aggravation of vata due to intake of dry, hard or spicy food, suppression of natural urges, excessive straining during defecation, etc. Swelling and bleeding in the anal region causing pain and itching. Anus
I hope this table helps you understand the eight main diseases in Ayurveda. I’ll try to create a graphic art of the table for you.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 21/10/2023
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