The following is a synopsis of the Mayo Clinic's information on Churg-Strauss syndrome.
Churg-Strauss is a body condition characterized by inflammation of blood vessels. The condition is also known as eosinophilic granulonatosis. The inflammation of the blood vessels impedes blood circulation to the vital organs of the body. Sometimes, the organs and tissues affected can be damaged completely.
This condition has no cure. Medical drugs can help a victim of this condition to control its symptoms. The drugs given to control this condition are normally steroids and powerful immunosuppressant.
The precise cause of Churg-Strauss syndrome is not known. Scientists argue that have an overactive body immune response. Such a response may generate genes and environmental triggers like allergens. The overreaction of the immune system may target the healthy tissues in a body rather than fighting bacteria. This leads to a widespread inflammation of the blood vessels.
Some people get the syndrome after using allergy or asthma medications like montelukast. They can also get it if they switch from low dosage oral steroids to high dosage inhaled steroids. Nevertheless, there is no clear proof about the connection of steroid medications and the syndrome.
Churg-Strauss syndrome is a rare condition. One 3 people out of a million may be affected. The primary possible risk factor of the syndrome is age. Statistics have shown that on average, the people diagnosed with this syndrome are in their mid and late forties.
People who can from families that have a history of asthma and other nasal problems are also at risk. Most people diagnosed with this syndrome come from families with a history of chronic sinusitis. It is important to note that majority of people with this syndrome also suffer from allergies and cancer.
Churg-Strauss syndrome has no cure. Nevertheless, there are medications which can be given to the affected people to enable them attain a remission. To have possible outcomes from the treatments used to control the syndrome, a person should seek medical assistance as soon as symptoms appear. Some of the medications used to control the syndrome includes; Corticosteroids, Immunosuppressive drugs, Immune Globulin, and Rituximab.
Long term usage the syndrome controlling medications like prednisone can have some side effects to the body. To control these side effects, there are several lifestyle behaviors that a person can adopt. First, it is advisable to perform body exercises in order to retain a healthy body weight.
You should protect your bones by using cortisone. Cortisone is rich in calcium and vitamin D. You should also refrain from smoking and keep all your doctor's appointments. This way, he can identify emerging symptoms and take necessary precautions. Finally, a person should adopt healthy diets such as vegetables, whole grains, and fruits.
Churg-Strauss syndrome is an immensely serious disease. Even if the syndrome is in remission, you cannot stop worrying on the possibility of it reoccurring. It may also has serious long-term effects to the heart, lungs, and the liver.
A person should educate themself about the syndrome so as to be prepared in dealing with complications. It is also advisable for a victim to maintain a good support system such friends, family, and other victims of syndrome.
Please refer to the Mayo Clinic pages for more detailed information at: www.mayoclinic.org/home/ovc-20232243