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Natural remedies for Polythemia Vera

By Anonymous January 4, 2018 - 11:43pm
 
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Having phlebotomy & on chemotherapy, but would love to not do the med. Alternative herbal treatments or remedies would be much preference. Any suggestions?

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HERWriter Guide

Hello Anon

Thank you for writing.

For the benefit of our readers, Polycythemia vera (PV) is an extremely rare blood disorder (five cases per million persons) which causes the red blood count to be much higher than normal. For persons with PV, the production of red blood cells goes into overdrive causing the body to produce more red blood cells than is healthy for the average person.

The affect of the presence of these extra red blood cells is that the blood actually thickens, causing it to flow more slowly. As a result of the slower blood flow, you may be more prone to experience blood clots or blocked arteries and veins. This disorder may also lead to angina, heart failure or heart attack and stroke.

The treatments you are on now are appropriate, and unfortunately there is no cure so there are no natural (or otherwise) remedies.
However, exercise can help to keep the heart healthy and take exercise like Yoga or Pilates for suppleness, strength and mental health. Poor skin health can be a symptom of PV so take warm (not hot) showers/baths using oatmeal or gentle natural oils. Moisturize daily - purchase an aloe vera plant - they last forever and are low cost.

Best,
Susan

January 5, 2018 - 11:20am
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