What’s Behind the Link?
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder that leads to increased bleeding and bruising. While the primary cause of ITP is not entirely understood, it is often associated with other conditions, including infections, autoimmune diseases and certain cancers. To help, there are medications such as Panzyga, which works by providing antibodies that the patient's immune system lacks.
Carcinogenic Drinks to Avoid
Carcinogenic drinks to avoid include:
- Soda.
- Sugary fruit juices.
- Energy drinks.
- Alcohol.
- Sweetened iced tea.
- Processed fruit drinks.
- Flavored waters with artificial sweeteners.
- Sweetened coffee drinks.
- Sports drinks with added sugars.
- Canned iced coffees and teas.
Experts recommend minimizing the consumption of carcinogenic drinks, such as those containing high levels of alcohol or certain chemical additives. This can serve as a proactive step in reducing your chance of getting cancer or serious diseases.
Understanding ITP
ITP, also known as immune thrombocytopenic purpura, is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets, which are essential for normal blood clotting. It is not cancer, though some confuse it with blood cancer (leukemia).
The primary cause of ITP is an abnormal immune response where the body's immune system produces antibodies that target and destroy platelets. Possible triggers include viral infections such as hepatitis, HIV and Epstein-Barr virus, certain medications, vaccinations and other autoimmune disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
ITP is a relatively rare disease, affecting about 9.5 per 100,000 people in America, with a global prevalence of over 200,000 people at any given time. Research is still being conducted to understand more about this disease.
Common Symptoms of ITP
- Skin that bruises very easily.
- A skin rash of small red dots.
- Bleeding from any area of the body.
- Bleeding from the gums.
- Frequent nosebleeds that take a long time to stop.
- Internal bleeding.
- Long or heavy menstrual periods.
Treatment Options
Despite ITP being a relatively rare disease, lots of research is being done to understand it better. Here are some of the most common treatment options available to people dealing with ITP:
Medications
- Corticosteroids: Such as prednisone to suppress the immune system and increase platelet count.
- Panzyga: Panzyga is primarily indicated for the treatment of primary humoral immunodeficiency (PI). It works by providing antibodies that the patient's immune system lacks, thereby helping to prevent infections.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG): To boost platelet count temporarily by interfering with the immune process.
- Anti-D immunoglobulin: For patients who are Rh-positive, to reduce platelet destruction.
- Immunosuppressants: Such as rituximab, to reduce the immune response.
- Thrombopoietin receptor agonists: Such as eltrombopag and romiplostim, to stimulate platelet production.
Surgery
- Splenectomy: Removal of the spleen, which is involved in the destruction of platelets, may be considered if other treatments are ineffective.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Avoiding injury: To minimize the risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Regular monitoring: Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor platelet levels and adjust treatment as necessary.
Prognosis
The prognosis of this rare disease can vary depending on its severity. Acute ITP usually starts suddenly and disappears in less than six months. In these cases, it usually does not recur. In cases of chronic ITP, however, symptoms can last anywhere from six months to a lifetime.
Some individuals may experience spontaneous remission, while others may require ongoing treatment to manage their condition. With appropriate management, many individuals with ITP can maintain a good quality of life, although they may need to make lifestyle adjustments to reduce bleeding risks.