Guide To Treating Essential Thrombocythemia

Essential thrombocythemia is a disorder in which the body produces too many platelets. This rare condition occurs more often in women and is most commonly diagnosed in individuals over fifty years old. Typical symptoms include lightheadedness, fainting, and chest pain. In more severe cases, essential thrombocythemia can cause blood clots, and many cases of the disease are not diagnosed until this point.

While there is no cure for essential thrombocythemia, there are treatment options available. Because blood clots are serious medical conditions and can be fatal in some cases, it is important to diagnose essential thrombocythemia and begin treatment as quickly as possible. It is also important to follow guidelines that can reduce the risk of developing the disorder.

Consume Healthy Foods

One of the best ways to treat essential thrombocythemia is to consume healthy foods. Avoiding saturated and trans fats is important for keeping the arteries clear, which in turn helps prevent blood clots from forming. A diet including plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables will help keep the body functioning as normally and efficiently as possible to avoid complications from essential thrombocythemia.

Beyond covering the basic food groups, following a diet that avoids inflammatory foods can lessen the symptoms of essential thrombocythemia and prevent blood clots and other complications. Consuming foods such as tomatoes, fatty fish and nuts will keep inflammation in the body at bay. This diet can not only improve symptoms and reduce risk factors for complications of essential thrombocythemia but also improve the patient's overall health and wellbeing.

Take Recommended Medication

One of the most important ways to manage symptoms and treat essential thrombocythemia is to take recommended medication. Several different medicines may be recommended to treat the symptoms of and lessen the potential for complications from essential thrombocythemia. Low-dose acetylsalicylic acid is often recommended to reduce platelet levels and lower the risk of clotting. Medications that target the bone marrow to slow the production of blood cells and platelets may also be recommended. While some of the side effects may be difficult to endure, failing to take these medications can increase the risk of blood clots and lead to serious complications from the disease.