Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a medical disorder characterized by a low platelet count in the blood, usually defined as less than 100,000 platelets per microliter. Platelets are crucial for blood clotting, and a reduced platelet count in ITP can lead to a heightened risk of spontaneous bleeding or bruising. ITP primarily occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies platelets as foreign invaders and produces antibodies to destroy them.

The exact cause of this autoimmune response is often unknown, but it can be triggered by various factors, including viral infections, medications, or underlying autoimmune conditions. ITP can affect individuals of all ages, although it is more common in children and young adults. Its symptoms can range from mild, with minimal bleeding, to severe, resulting in potentially life-threatening hemorrhages. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to assess platelet counts and rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

There are two main types of ITP: Acute and Chronic:

• Acute Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Acute Thrombocytopenic Purpura is a medical condition characterized by a sudden and significant decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are essential for blood clotting, and a low platelet count in this condition can lead to easy bruising, petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin), and, in severe cases, spontaneous bleeding.

Acute Thrombocytopenic Purpura is typically caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking and destroying platelets and its exact underlying cause is often unclear. While it can affect individuals of all ages, it is more commonly diagnosed in children.

• Chronic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Chronic Thrombocytopenic Purpura is a long-term medical condition characterized by a persistent and low platelet count in the blood. Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting, and a reduced platelet count in this condition can result in easy bruising, petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin), and, in severe cases, spontaneous bleeding.

Chronic Thrombocytopenic Purpura is primarily caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking and destroying platelets, although the exact underlying cause remains uncertain in many cases.

Symptoms of Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) typically encompass:

• Easy Bruising: You might get bruises easily, especially on your face.
• Purple Spots: You could see purple spots on your skin that look like big freckles.
• Tiny Red or Purple Dots: You might have small red or purple dots on your skin, kind of like a rash.
• Bleeding: Sometimes, you can bleed from your gums, nose, or tummy.
• Feeling very tired: You may feel more tired than usual like you need a lot of rest.
• Bone Hurts: Your bones might hurt a bit, but not everyone with ITP feels this.
• Swollen Lumps: You could have lumps under your skin, like in your neck or armpits that feel swollen.

External factors which can lead to the development of ITP can be:

• Consumption of over-the-counter medicine without considering the side effects and prolonged usage of OTC medicines
• Viral infections that lead to chickenpox, hepatitis C, and AIDS can prompt antibodies that cross-react with platelets
• Pregnancy can alter immunity and sometimes lead to ITP
• Auto-immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, etc.
• Low-grade lymphoma and leukemia

General Precautions

• Avoid certain medicines that can affect platelet function
• Avoid alcohol, spicy food, etc.
• Always choose low-impact to decrease your risk of injury and bleeding.
• Consume a well-balanced diet like lean meat, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
• Maintain an ideal body weight.

Ayurclinic Holistic Approach to ITP

Ayurveda classifies ITP under “Tiryaka Raktapitta, a blood disorder. In “Tiryaka Raktapitta”, all three Dosha of the body’s bloodstream; Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are vitiated resulting in the imbalance of the metabolism of the bloodstream or resulting the imbalance of the Agni in the Rakta Dhatu. This imbalance affects the immune system and creates an error where the immune system of the body starts attacking one component of the blood: Platelets.

Ayurvedic treatments for ITP typically involve a holistic approach aimed at restoring balance in the body and improving overall health and well-being.

Here are key aspects of Ayurclinic’s approach:

• Individualized Ayurvedic Consultations: The journey towards healing begins with a thorough consultation by experienced Ayurvedic practitioners. We assess the individual’s unique constitution (Prakriti), the current state of imbalance (Vikriti), and any underlying factors contributing to ITP

• Customized Herbal Therapies: Our Ayurvedic practitioners often prescribe certain herbal remedies tailored to an individual’s constitution and specific imbalances. Personalized Ayurveda therapies are focused on balancing the immune system, boosting platelet production, and enhancing overall blood health. These herbal formulations are tailored to the specific needs of the patient.

• Dietary Guidance: Nutrition plays a vital role in Ayurveda. Ayurclinic provides dietary recommendations to support platelet production and immune system regulation. Specific foods and dietary habits are suggested to align with the patient’s constitution and current health condition.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced lifestyle. Ayurclinic advises on lifestyle modifications that can help reduce stress, enhance immunity, and promote overall well-being. Stress management techniques such as yoga and meditation may also be recommended.

• Panchakarma Therapies: Panchakarma is a comprehensive detoxification and rejuvenation therapy that involves five cleansing procedures: Snehana (Oleation), Swedana (Sweating), Virechana (purgation), Basti (Medicated Enema), and Nasya (Nasal Cleansing). While these therapies are traditionally used for various purposes, when applied appropriately and under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner, they may help improve overall health and potentially address the underlying causes of ITP.

• Periodic Monitoring: Ayurclinic closely monitors the progress of ITP patients throughout their treatment journey. Adjustments to herbal formulations and lifestyle recommendations are made as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.
• Patient Education: Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition and Ayurvedic treatments is a fundamental aspect of Ayurclinic’s approach. Patients are educated about the importance of compliance, lifestyle changes, and the holistic nature of their treatment.

 Conclusion:

At Ayurclinic, we adopt a comprehensive and holistic approach to managing Immune Thrombocytopenia. Central to this approach is the principle of addressing the root cause of the condition, rather than merely alleviating symptoms. Ayurclinic’s commitment in treating Immune Thrombocytopenia goes beyond symptom management. We aim to restore balance to the body, strengthen immunity, and improve the overall quality of life for individuals facing this autoimmune disorder.

Consulting with our Ayurvedic practitioners can provide a path to better health and improved quality of life for ITP patients. If you are suffering from ITP and looking for treatment of ITP in Melbourne, book an appointment with us.