POEMS syndrome treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural POEMS syndrome treatment
Recommended health tests for POEMS syndrome
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
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 POEMS syndrome
POEMS syndrome, a rare multisystem disorder, is as perplexing as its acronym suggests, standing for Polyneuropathy, Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, Monoclonal gammopathy, and Skin changes. This condition affects various body systems, causing a variety of symptoms. Understanding POEMS syndrome is the first step towards seeking effective treatment. Its rarity, with estimates suggesting it affects 1 in 1,000,000 people globally, means that awareness and specialized knowledge are pivotal for addressing it effectively.
Causes
The exact cause of POEMS syndrome is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal proliferation of plasma cells, similar to multiple myeloma. These abnormal cells produce a monoclonal protein, which is harmful and plays a key role in the syndrome's development. Genetic factors might also contribute to its onset, although no direct genetic link has been established yet.
Signs and symptoms
POEMS syndrome manifests through a wide range of symptoms, reflecting its systemic impact. Key symptoms include: - Progressive weakness and numbness in the limbs - Enlargement of the liver, spleen, or lymph nodes - Hormonal imbalances, causing symptoms such as impotence or menstrual changes - Skin changes, like increased pigmentation, thickening, or excessive hair growth - Fatigue and difficulty breathing - Edema, particularly in the legs Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to a more timely diagnosis, which is crucial given the complexity of POEMS syndrome.
Diagnosing POEMS syndrome
Diagnosing POEMS syndrome is challenging due to its rarity and the wide range of symptoms it presents. However, a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies is typically used. Key diagnostic steps include blood tests to detect the monoclonal protein, biopsies of affected tissue, and imaging studies to observe organ enlargement or bone lesions. A definitive diagnosis often requires meeting specific criteria, including the presence of both major and minor symptoms of the syndrome.
Prevention and natural treatment
Currently, there is no known way to prevent POEMS syndrome, given its unclear causes. Treatment, therefore, focuses on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. Functional medicine offers a holistic approach to treatment, emphasizing the body's natural healing capacity. Strategies may include dietary changes to support immune health and reduce inflammation, nutritional supplements to address deficiencies, and physical therapy to enhance mobility and strength. In more severe cases, traditional medical treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended to target abnormal cell growth. However, integrating natural treatment methods can support the body’s overall health and resilience during these more aggressive treatments. It’s always important to work closely with a healthcare provider to tailor a treatment plan to the individual’s needs, incorporating both medical and functional medicine strategies for the best outcomes.
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