Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura Treatment Information

Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), also known as self thrombocytopenic purpura. Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is a condition in which bleeding blood does not clot as it should. The platelets (thrombocytes) are colorless blood cells that stop by the loss of blood clumping together at the site of injury to a blood vessel and form plugs holes in the ship. People with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, because of their low platelet count, tend to bleed and bruise more easily injured. Bleeding from the nose and bleeding gums are also common. In adults, women are affected approximately 3 times more frequently than Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura is often divided into two categories: acute and chronic. It occurs mainly in children, boys and girls, and is the most common type of ITP. Chronic ITP lasts more than six months and is more prevalent among adults. Chronic ITP affects women 2 to 3 times more often than men. ITP does not run in families. Treatment of ITP in adults is aimed at increasing the blood platelet count. Immunosuppresants like mycophenolate mofetil and azathioprine are becoming more popular for their effectiveness. Rituximab has also been used successfully for some patients. Extreme cases may require vincristine.A chemotherapy agent, to stop the immune system from destroying platelets. Steroids help prevent bleeding by decreasing the rate of platelet destruction. Intravenous gamma globulin (IVGG) is a protein that contains many antibodies and also slows the destruction of platelets. Other possible treatments may include the use of immunosuppressant drugs such as rituximab (Rituxan) the safest and most commonly used of this group cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), azathioprine (Imuran) or vinca alkaloids (Vincasar, Velban). Avoid medications that contain aspirin, as they may interfere with the body ’s ability to control bleeding.Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura Treatment and Prevention Tips 1. Steroids help prevent bleeding by decreasing the rate of platelet destruction. 2. High-dose gamma globulin (an immune factor) injections are helpful.3. Rituximab has also been used successfully treatment of this condition.4. Vincristine, a chemotherapy agent, to stop the immune system from destroying platelets.5. Teenage girls may need to take hormones therapy to stop their menstrual cycle. 6. Passing the blood over a protein A column , which filters antibodies out of the blood stream.

Alternative Treatment and Herbal Medicines For Breast Cancer

Cancer requires scrupulous medical and surgical treatment. Nonetheless, certain alternative therapies may play an adjunctive role in its care.Herbal MedicineHerbalists have long recommended tropical periwinkle to treat breast cancer and other malignancies. Indeed, a periwinkle alkaloid is used to make vincristine, a very potent chemotherapy agent. Oncologists stress, however, that this drug should be used only under careful medical supervision rather than to resort to herbal periwinkle extracts, which can be highly toxic.Meditation, Self Hypnosis And VisualizationStudies indicate that women with advanced breast cancer who participate in group support sessions that include these techniques have significantly longer survival rates than those who do not. Scientists have not yet been able to explain this effect, but some theorize that the methods mobilize the immune system to fight the further spread of cancer.Nutrition TherapySome nutritionists recommend daily supplements of beta carotene (precursor to vitamin A) and vitamins C and E, both to help prevent cancer and to slow its growth. However, studies suggest that foods high in these antioxidants are more effective. Good sources of beta carotene are orange and dark green vegetables and yellow and orange fruits; of vitamin C, many fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits and bell peppers; of vitamin E, wheat germ, legumes, seafood, and poultry. Although the role of other dietary components remains controversial, some studies suggest that a low-fat diet may cut the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence. Such a regimen requires limiting the intake of all fats, especially those from animals, as well as animal protein, while increasing foods high in fiber, such as whole grain products and fresh fruits and vegetables. Other nutrition therapists and some naturopaths may recommend extreme macrobiotic and other restricted, low calorie diets for breast cancer patients. Oncologists warn that these diets should be avoided because they do not provide adequate calories, protein, and other nutrients that the body needs for recovery or to prevent the wasting that occurs in advanced cancer. Yog regular practice of yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help alleviate the stress and anxiety caused by cancer, which in turn may boost immune system function.Self TreatmentIncreasingly, women are expected to playa decision making role in their overall treatment. This demands being well informed and not hesitating to question your doctor and voice your concerns. Under the best of circumstances, a diagnosis of breast cancer is psychologically devastating. Joining a support group such as the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery program, or simply talking to women who have recovered from breast cancer, can be reassuring. Concerns about physical appearance following a mastectomy are normal. However, women who do not undergo immediate breast reconstruction are usually relieved to find that, with a well fit prosthesis, they can wear most of their clothing without anyone being able to tell they have had this surgery. Initially, use a temporary prosthesis such as cotton fluff inserted into your regular bra, or one that is slightly larger to accommodate bandages. lake this to the hospital with you to avoid the stress of finding something to wear for the trip home. After healing is complete, plan to shop for a permanent prosthesis. Some regular lingerie departments sell breast prostheses, but you may feel more comfortable and find a wider selection at a specialty shop. Make sure that you tryon several different types. Prices vary, but many insurance policies and Medicare cover at least part of the cost. If you cannot find a ready-made prosthesis that looks and feels right, consider investing in a customized one made to match exactly the contour of your other breast.A prosthesis usually is not necessary after a lumpectomy, but a bra should be worn day and night for several days following surgery to prevent traction of the wound and to help the breast regain its previous shape. Self help measures can help to minimize common complications affecting the arm and hand on the mastectomy side. To minimize swelling, exercise your arm as soon as your surgeon says it is okay. Lift it as high as you comfortably can several times a day to promote the flow of lymph. Also, “walk” your fingers up a wall as high as possible and do isometric, or pumping, exercises for the hand such as squeezing a rubber ball. If arm swelling still occurs, talk to your doctor about wearing an elastic sleeve to reduce swelling and improve lymph flow. If lymph nodes have been removed, the arm and hand on that side are more vulnerable to infection. It is best to avoid anything that constricts or burdens them. Wear loose fitting clothing and switch your watch and purse to the opposite arm. Also have blood drawn or blood pressure measured on the opposite arm. Try to minimize cuts or injuries; for example, use an electric razor if you shave underarm hair; wear protective gloves for gardening and other tasks; and use special care when trimming nails and cuticles. If you do get a cut or burn, wash it immediately with soap and water and apply an antiseptic plus an antibiotic cream. Consult your doctor promptly if an infection develops.Other Causes of Breast SymptomsMany women experience swelling and tenderness of the breasts as part of premenstrual syndrome. Benign fibrocystic breast lumps are also exceedingly common. Nursing mothers often develop mastitis, a bacterial breast infection.

Alternative Treatment and Herbal Medicines For Breast Cancer

Cancer requires scrupulous medical and surgical treatment. Nonetheless, certain alternative therapies may play an adjunctive role in its care.Herbal MedicineHerbalists have long recommended tropical periwinkle to treat breast cancer and other malignancies. Indeed, a periwinkle alkaloid is used to make vincristine, a very potent chemotherapy agent. Oncologists stress, however, that this drug should be used only under careful medical supervision rather than to resort to herbal periwinkle extracts, which can be highly toxic.Meditation, Self Hypnosis And VisualizationStudies indicate that women with advanced breast cancer who participate in group support sessions that include these techniques have significantly longer survival rates than those who do not. Scientists have not yet been able to explain this effect, but some theorize that the methods mobilize the immune system to fight the further spread of cancer.Nutrition TherapySome nutritionists recommend daily supplements of beta carotene (precursor to vitamin A) and vitamins C and E, both to help prevent cancer and to slow its growth. However, studies suggest that foods high in these antioxidants are more effective. Good sources of beta carotene are orange and dark green vegetables and yellow and orange fruits; of vitamin C, many fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits and bell peppers; of vitamin E, wheat germ, legumes, seafood, and poultry. Although the role of other dietary components remains controversial, some studies suggest that a low-fat diet may cut the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence. Such a regimen requires limiting the intake of all fats, especially those from animals, as well as animal protein, while increasing foods high in fiber, such as whole grain products and fresh fruits and vegetables. Other nutrition therapists and some naturopaths may recommend extreme macrobiotic and other restricted, low calorie diets for breast cancer patients. Oncologists warn that these diets should be avoided because they do not provide adequate calories, protein, and other nutrients that the body needs for recovery or to prevent the wasting that occurs in advanced cancer. Yog regular practice of yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help alleviate the stress and anxiety caused by cancer, which in turn may boost immune system function.Self TreatmentIncreasingly, women are expected to playa decision making role in their overall treatment. This demands being well informed and not hesitating to question your doctor and voice your concerns. Under the best of circumstances, a diagnosis of breast cancer is psychologically devastating. Joining a support group such as the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery program, or simply talking to women who have recovered from breast cancer, can be reassuring. Concerns about physical appearance following a mastectomy are normal. However, women who do not undergo immediate breast reconstruction are usually relieved to find that, with a well fit prosthesis, they can wear most of their clothing without anyone being able to tell they have had this surgery. Initially, use a temporary prosthesis such as cotton fluff inserted into your regular bra, or one that is slightly larger to accommodate bandages. lake this to the hospital with you to avoid the stress of finding something to wear for the trip home. After healing is complete, plan to shop for a permanent prosthesis. Some regular lingerie departments sell breast prostheses, but you may feel more comfortable and find a wider selection at a specialty shop. Make sure that you tryon several different types. Prices vary, but many insurance policies and Medicare cover at least part of the cost. If you cannot find a ready-made prosthesis that looks and feels right, consider investing in a customized one made to match exactly the contour of your other breast.A prosthesis usually is not necessary after a lumpectomy, but a bra should be worn day and night for several days following surgery to prevent traction of the wound and to help the breast regain its previous shape. Self help measures can help to minimize common complications affecting the arm and hand on the mastectomy side. To minimize swelling, exercise your arm as soon as your surgeon says it is okay. Lift it as high as you comfortably can several times a day to promote the flow of lymph. Also, “walk” your fingers up a wall as high as possible and do isometric, or pumping, exercises for the hand such as squeezing a rubber ball. If arm swelling still occurs, talk to your doctor about wearing an elastic sleeve to reduce swelling and improve lymph flow. If lymph nodes have been removed, the arm and hand on that side are more vulnerable to infection. It is best to avoid anything that constricts or burdens them. Wear loose fitting clothing and switch your watch and purse to the opposite arm. Also have blood drawn or blood pressure measured on the opposite arm. Try to minimize cuts or injuries; for example, use an electric razor if you shave underarm hair; wear protective gloves for gardening and other tasks; and use special care when trimming nails and cuticles. If you do get a cut or burn, wash it immediately with soap and water and apply an antiseptic plus an antibiotic cream. Consult your doctor promptly if an infection develops.Other Causes of Breast SymptomsMany women experience swelling and tenderness of the breasts as part of premenstrual syndrome. Benign fibrocystic breast lumps are also exceedingly common. Nursing mothers often develop mastitis, a bacterial breast infection.

Cancer is one such disease which requires scrupulous medical and surgical treatment. However, certain alternative therapies can also play an important role towards breast cancer treatment. When people opt for alternative therapies, they use it instead of conventional treatments altogether. For example : A person may use a special diet for treating cancer instead of undergoing chemotherapy or another conventional treatment. Traditional Chinese medicines, acupuncture, acupressure, herbal remedies and special nutritional or diet therapies, are also examples of alternative breast cancer treatment. Also, special nutritional or diet therapies are popular, alternative breast cancer treatments. One needs to understand, that our body is designed to heal by itself. But to make that happen, we should not try to injure a wound which will then not heal in itself. This is a common sense statement that I have made. Yet, I must say that many of us do injure our bodies, on a day to day basis, by the wrong ways of living and eating. If you continue to eat and live wrongly, then it will result in a disease of one type or the other. We then rush to doctors for treating our sickness or disease. However, mostly it is seen that doctors only know how to treat the symptoms of disease rather than addressing the root cause of the disease itself. There are many types of alternative breast cancer treatments that are available now. Some of them are as follows : Herbal medicine : The tropical periwinkle is used to treat breast cancer and other malignancies. This periwinkle alkaloid is used in the making of vincristine, which is a very powerful chemotherapy agent. However, this alternative breast cancer treatment should be conducted carefully. Herbal periwinkle extracts are highly toxic in nature. Hence, this drug form should be given under medical supervision only. Meditation and self hypnosis method : Women with advanced breast cancer stage, should participate in group support sessions that conduct meditation and self hypnosis methods. By doing so, they will increase their survival chances. The above mentioned alternate breast cancer treatment methods, mobilize the immune system to fight the further spread of cancer. Relaxation techniques help in removing stress and anxiety caused by cancer patient. This boosts the immune system of the body. 3) Nutrition Therapy : Nutritionist who use nutrition therapy as an alternative breast cancer treatment, will usually recommend supplements of beta carotene and vitamin’s C and E too. Orange and dark green vegetables are examples of good sources of beta carotene. It is also found that a low-fat diet is likely to help in cutting down the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence. It will help in preventing cancer and will slow down its growth. It is a known fact that foods with high in antioxidants are more effective. 4) Self treatment : Cancer patients, who have undergone mastectomy, usually are concerned about their physical appearance. However, those women who do not undergo immediate breast reconstruction can initially use a temporary prosthesis such as cotton fluff inserted into the regular bra. Prosthesis is not required after a lumpectomy, but it is recommended to wear a bra day and night, for many days, following the surgery period, in order to prevent traction of the wound and to assist the breast in regaining its previous shape. The patient can minimize swelling, by exercising the arm as soon as the surgeon gives a clear signal. The arm should be lifted as high as possible, several times in a day, in order to promote the flow of lymph. Exercises such as squeezing a rubber ball should also be performed. It is always recommended that the concerned person should wear loose fitting clothes and watches and purses should be used by the other hand which is good. For more information on breast cancer treatment go to http://www.understanding-breast-cancer-treatment.com