TANĪN-O-DAWĪ (TINNITUS): TREATMENT WITH SHARBAT-I-FAULĀD - A CASE REPORT

Introduction: The term "tinnitus" originates from the Latin word tinnire, meaning "to jingle" or "to ring," and refers to the sensation of hearing a ringing or noise in the ear without any external source. In Unani System of Medicine (USM), tinnitus is referred to as Tanīn-o-Dawī, When the sound is of high pitch, it is referred to as Tanin, and when the sound is of low pitch, it is called Dawi. It is believed that tinnitus results from the diversion of ghalaz akhlāt wa riyāh (morbid material) from the brain to the ear. Factors such as malnutrition, dryness, starvation, and general weakness are also considered contributing causes. Clinical presentation: A 35 year old female patient, who is non-diabetic, non-hypertensive, and euthyroid, presented to the OPD of the Department of Moalajat at RRIUM, Srinagar, with complaints of ringing in both ears, along with a sensation of heaviness in the ears and head. The symptoms were aggravated when the patient had an empty stomach or was in a state of starvation. Intervention: The patient was prescribed 10 ml of Sharbat-i-Faulād, to be taken twice daily for 8 weeks, along with recommended lifestyle and dietary changes. Results: The sign and symptoms showed significant improvement and patient reported being free of tinnitus for approximately 35 out of 45 days and experienced a 75% reduction in symptoms during the remaining days. Discussion: The observed results can be attributed to the Unani formulation, along with lifestyle and dietary changes, which helped alleviate the symptoms of tinnitus. Sharbat-i-Faulād, with its significant hematinic effect, may have contributed by improving blood quality and circulation, further supporting symptom relief. Conclusion: The findings from the results and discussion suggest that the USM is an effective alternative for managing tinnitus.