Guest guest Posted September 14, 1999 Report Share Posted September 14, 1999 Hi Folks: I got this today from a member of another list who assists people with autoimmune disorders with spiritual support; I thought it might be of interest to you personally or to pass along. Subject: MCTD INFORMATION YOU ASKED FOR Date: Tue, 14 Sep 1999 04:20:01 -0700 (PDT) Vance <MCTD To: Caroline Abreu <crow General Information about Mixed Connective Tissue Disease Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) -- Disease affecting the entire body characterized by the combined symptoms of various collagen diseases. Symptoms may include joint pain, inflammation of muscles, non-deforming arthritis and swollen hands. May also affect esophagus and lungs. ------------- BODY PARTS INVOLVED-- Connective tissue (collagen). Many body systems are affected, including joints, skin, kidneys, brain, heart and lungs. CAUSES-- Unknown, an autoimmune disorder. In an autoimmune disorder, the body's immune system functions abnormally and attacks its own normal tissue. HOW TO PREVENT-- Cannot be prevented at present. -------------- What To Expect APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE-- Self-care after diagnosis. Doctor's treatment. POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS -- Bacterial or viral pneumonia. Impaired kidney function. Pericarditis. Seizures. Hypertension. SLE is sometimes associated with other autoimmune disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, hypothyroidism. PROBABLE OUTCOME -- Currently considered incurable. The prognosis is variable depending on the organs involved and the extent of the inflammation. . ------------ ------------ How To Treat GENERAL MEASURES-- Obtain prompt medical treatment for any infection. Sunlight sensitivity may occur in some patients. If so, avoid exposure or use protection of hats, sunglasses, sunscreens, long sleeved clothing. Apply heat relieve joint pain. Control the stress in your life. Don't take any immunizations or drugs without consulting your doctor. Immunizations and some drugs may cause relapses or worsen current symptoms. MEDICATION-- Your doctor may prescribe immunosuppressive, steroid and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or anti-malarial drugs. These may relieve symptoms but don't cure the disease. ACTIVITY-- Physical therapy may be recommended. DIET-- If your kidneys or heart are affected, restrict your salt intake. -------------- Call Your Doctor If You have symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus. Any of the following occurs after diagnosis: Fever of 101F (38.3C) or higher, blood in the urine, shortness of breath, chest pain, bloody stool, severe abdominal pain, any illness with fever. New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects. ------------- To learn about Mixed Connective Tissue Disease visit http://www.nationwide.net/~vance/mctd.htm or e-mail MCTD or fax: 1-530-481-8229 ------------ ------------ ------------- ---------------------- ---------------------- -- Blessings, Crow " Look for Rainbows in the Darkness " -- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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