Neuroblastoma treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Neuroblastoma treatment

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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 Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma stands as one of the more enigmatic challenges within pediatric oncology, distinguished not only by its origin—stemming from neural crest cells involved in the embryonic development of the adrenal glands and nervous system—but also by its unpredictable nature. It ranks as the third most common cancer in children, accounting for about 6% of all types of pediatric cancers. Despite its gravitas, the conversation around neuroblastoma has slowly begun integrating discussions on natural therapies, aimed at complementing conventional treatments with the broader intention of enhancing patient welfare and potentially boosting treatment efficacy.

Causes

The exact causes of neuroblastoma remain unclear, primarily believed to hinge on genetic mutations. These mutations occur spontaneously and are not typically inherited but may involve abnormalities in the gene responsible for nerve growth and development. External environmental factors do not have a proven link to the onset of neuroblastoma, making its prevention challenging.

Signs and symptoms

Neuroblastoma manifests through a range of symptoms, often dependent on the tumor's location and the presence of metastasis. Common signs include: - A palpable lump or mass, possibly causing pain - Swelling in the abdomen or legs - Changes in bowel habits or urinary patterns - Persistent fatigue and fever - Difficulty breathing or chronic cough - Unexplained weight loss - Bone pain or tenderness - Eye changes, such as droopiness, bulging, or dark circles

Diagnosing Neuroblastoma

The diagnosis of neuroblastoma incorporates a multifaceted approach, often initiated after the observation of the aforementioned signs. A combination of imaging tests (such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans), biopsies, bone marrow aspirations, and blood and urine tests for specific markers like catecholamines is employed to ascertain the diagnosis. Additionally, molecular diagnostic techniques are increasingly employed to identify genetic abnormalities that guide therapy.

Prevention and natural treatment

Given the ambiguous causes of neuroblastoma, prevention strategies are not clearly defined. However, the realm of treatment, especially from a functional medicine perspective, offers a broad spectrum of natural and supportive strategies aimed at enhancing the traditional treatment regimen. Functional medicine delves deeper into the patient's overall health, advocating for tailor-made treatment protocols that focus on diet, lifestyle, and supplement interventions to boost the body's intrinsic healing mechanisms. Nutritional support, for instance, encompasses diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to ensure optimal nutrition during treatment. Specific supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, have been highlighted for their potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, although they should be used cautiously and under medical supervision. Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has also garnered attention for its potential to inhibit neuroblastoma cell growth in laboratory studies. Lifestyle adjustments encompass stress reduction techniques, adequate sleep, and physical activity tailored to the child's energy levels, all contributing to a supportive oncological care plan that addresses both the physical and emotional wellbeing of the patient. Combining these natural treatment approaches with conventional therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy may offer a more holistic approach to managing neuroblastoma. However, it's imperative that any natural treatments or interventions are discussed with and overseen by the medical team to ensure they are safe and complementary to the standard care plan.

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