Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) treatment

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA)

Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a rare vasculitis that affects small blood vessels in the body. It is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation and damage to vessels. Understanding this complex condition is crucial for managing its impact on the body. With an estimated annual incidence of approximately 2.7 cases per million in the United States, MPA remains a challenge for those affected and their healthcare providers.

Causes

The precise causes of MPA are not fully understood. It is believed to be an autoimmune reaction, possibly triggered by infections, environmental factors, or genetic predisposition. The condition results in an attack on small blood vessels, leading to inflammation and a spectrum of clinical manifestations. Unlike some other vasculitides, no specific antigen or infectious agent has been consistently linked with MPA, making it a field of ongoing research.

Signs and symptoms

- Kidney involvement, often presenting as nephritis - Skin rashes, particularly purpura - Fever and general malaise - Muscle and joint pain - Nerve damage, leading to numbness or weakness - Abdominal pain or bleeding - Weight loss without trying - Cough, chest pain or hemoptysis (coughing up blood)

Diagnosing Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA)

Diagnosis of MPA involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory testing, and imaging studies. Blood tests may reveal anemia, elevated inflammation markers (such as C-reactive protein), and antibodies like p-ANCA/MPO-ANCA which are often present in MPA. Urinalysis can show signs of kidney involvement, one of the most common manifestations of the disease. Imaging techniques, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, help assess organ damage. A tissue biopsy, especially from affected kidneys or lungs, is considered gold standard in confirming the diagnosis of microscopic polyangiitis by showing the characteristic patterns of vasculitis.

Prevention and natural treatment

Preventing the onset of MPA is challenging due to its unclear causes. However, early detection and treatment initiation can prevent severe organ damage and complications. Treatment typically involves immunosuppressants like corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide to reduce immune system activity and inflammation. Recently, more targeted treatments like rituximab, a monoclonal antibody, have shown promise. In terms of natural treatments, while they cannot replace conventional therapy, certain lifestyle and dietary adjustments can support overall health and possibly mitigate some symptoms. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds), and stress management techniques like meditation can be beneficial. Always discuss with a healthcare provider before adding supplements or making significant lifestyle changes, especially in the context of an autoimmune condition. Management of MPA involves a holistic approach, taking into account the need for immunosuppressive therapy while also considering the overall wellbeing of the patient through supportive natural interventions.

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