Neuromyelitis optica 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 Neuromyelitis optica

Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO), also known as Devic's disease, is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting the spinal cord and optic nerves, leading to varying degrees of blindness and paralysis. Unlike multiple sclerosis (MS) with which it was once confused, NMO is characterized by the presence of a specific antibody—the NMO-IgG—aquaporin-4, making its pathophysiology unique. Its prevalence is estimated to be around 1-2 per 100,000 individuals, primarily affecting women more than men, and often presenting in either the third or fourth decade of life. Understanding NMO is vital not only for patients and their families but also for the advancement of natural and functional medicine approaches to treating this condition.

Causes

The exact causes of Neuromyelitis Optica are not fully understood, but it's known to be an autoimmune disorder. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the spinal cord and the optic nerves, specifically targeting aquaporin-4, a water channel found on the astrocytes in the central nervous system. Factors speculated to contribute include genetic predisposition and environmental triggers such as infections and possibly certain vaccinations, although research in this area is ongoing.

Signs and symptoms

- Sudden eye pain - Loss of vision, typically in one eye to start - Weakness or paralysis of limbs - Loss of sensation or altered sensation in the arms and legs - Uncontrollable vomiting and hiccups (due to brain stem involvement) - Bladder and bowel dysfunction

Diagnosing Neuromyelitis optica

Diagnosing NMO requires a comprehensive clinical assessment, including a detailed medical history, neurological examination, blood tests for specific biomarkers (including NMO-IgG/aquaporin-4 antibodies), and imaging tests such as MRI scans of the brain and spinal cord. Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to examine the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may also be necessary. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing NMO effectively, given its potential for rapid progression.

Prevention and natural treatment

While there's no known way to prevent Neuromyelitis Optica, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and minimizing immune attacks on the nervous system. Conventional treatment involves immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory drugs. However, functional medicine offers complementary and alternative strategies focusing on a holistic view of the patient. This includes dietary interventions to reduce inflammation, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil and antioxidants found in colorful fruits and vegetables. Vitamin D supplementation might be beneficial given its role in immune regulation. Rehabilitation therapies like acupuncture and chiropractic care can help manage pain and improve mobility. Lifestyle modifications, such as stress management techniques including yoga and meditation, can support overall well-being, potentially reducing the frequency of NMO flare-ups. Moreover, ongoing research into gut-health and its impact on autoimmune disorders suggests that a healthy, balanced gut microbiome might play a role in modulating immune responses, potentially offering another avenue for NMO treatment. Functional medicine emphasizes the importance of a personalized treatment plan, considering the unique circumstances and needs of each patient. Collaboration between patients, neurologists, and functional medicine practitioners is essential for managing NMO, aiming not only to treat the symptoms but also to improve the quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.

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