CONQUER YOUR FEAR OF THALASSEMIA – WORLD THALASSEMIA DAY – 8TH MAY

Thalassemia is a genetic blood illness that impairs the body’s ability to produce haemoglobin, a protein that is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Those who suffer from thalassemia have abnormally low levels of haemoglobin, which can result in anaemia and other serious consequences. On May 8 of each year, the World Thalassemia Day celebration takes place. The purpose of this day is to educate people about thalassemia and encourage them to get tested for the condition.

Incidence and Signs and Symptoms

Thalassemia strikes most frequently persons of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian origin; nevertheless, it is possible for people of any race or ethnicity to be affected by the condition. Thalassemia can be divided into two primary subtypes: alpha thalassemia and beta thalassemia. If there is a problem with the production of alpha globin, then the individual will have alpha thalassemia, and if there is a problem with the synthesis of beta globin, then the individual will have beta thalassemia.

The signs and symptoms of thalassemia might change based on the kind of the disease and how severe it is. In cases that are not severe, patients may have no symptoms at all or only mild anaemia. In cases that are more severe, people may feel symptoms such as weariness, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, jaundice, and issues with growth and development in children.

Therapy and Care

Thalassemia is a disorder that lasts a lifetime and requires continuous care and therapy. Blood transfusions, transplantation of bone marrow, and medication are some of the treatment options available for thalassemia.

People who suffer from thalassemia often require regular blood transfusions to make up for the shortage of healthy red blood cells in their bodies. However, receiving multiple transfusions over a short period of time increases the risk of developing iron overload, which in turn increases the risk of damage to organs such as the heart, liver, and pancreas. People who have thalassemia may be required to take special medications known as chelators, which are able to remove extra iron from the body and so prevent iron overload.

The transplantation of bone marrow is a potentially curative treatment for thalassemia, but it is a difficult and dangerous process that is not appropriate for everyone. To aid in the management of symptoms and the general improvement of health, a physician may also prescribe medications such as folic acid and vitamin D.

Ayurvedic remedies and Alternative Medicine In addition to traditional treatment for thalassemia, ayurvedic remedies and alternative medicine may also be utilised. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medical practise that emphasises the use of herbal treatments and holistic approaches to improve overall health and well-being.

Herbal therapies, alterations to one’s food, and adjustments to one’s lifestyle are all potential components of an Ayurvedic treatment plan for thalassemia. Ashwagandha, giloy, and guduchi are three herbs that might help enhance the immune system and improve energy levels. These benefits may be beneficial for persons who have thalassemia. 

Alterations to one’s diet could involve consuming a nutritious diet that is high in iron and other vital nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains in their entire form.

People who have thalassemia may also benefit from complementary and alternative therapies including acupuncture, yoga, and meditation, amongst others. These practises have the potential to assist in the reduction of stress, the improvement of mental health, and the promotion of general well-being.

Intake of a Good and Nutritious Diet: People who have thalassemia really need to consume a diet that is full of nutrients in order to help control their symptoms and enhance overall health. Haemoglobin levels in the blood can be helped to be increased by consuming foods that are high in the mineral iron, such as red meat, liver, chicken, and fish. People who have thalassemia may also benefit from consuming foods that are high in nutrients such as folic acid, vitamin B12, and vitamin C.

People who have thalassemia should, in addition to maintaining a balanced diet, stay away from foods and beverages that can impede the body’s ability to absorb iron, such as tea and coffee. Additionally, avoiding alcohol and smoking is recommended, as these have been shown to raise the risk of liver impairment as well as other issues.

Thalassemia is a difficult and lifelong condition to live with.

There are several home remedies that, in addition to Ayurvedic treatments and a nutritious diet, may be helpful in managing the symptoms of thalassemia. However, it is essential to emphasise that the usage of these cures need not to be viewed as a replacement for conventional therapies but rather as something that ought to be done in addition to such treatments.

1. Pomegranate: Pomegranate is a great source of iron and antioxidants, both of which can assist persons with thalassemia raise their haemoglobin levels and lessen the amount of oxidative stress they are under. Consuming pomegranate either in the form of juice or the fruit on a regular basis may offer health benefits.

2. Amla: Another superfood that is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is another name for this fruit. Boosting one’s immunity and maintaining overall health can be accomplished by drinking amla juice or eating fresh amla fruit.

3. Honey and Cinnamon: Studies have shown that a combination of honey and cinnamon has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the body. People who have thalassemia may find that taking their condition under control and improving their immune function by drinking one cup of warm water mixed with honey and cinnamon powder on a daily basis.

4. Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that has been utilised for a number of years in conventional medical practise. People who have thalassemia may benefit from reducing inflammation and oxidative stress by eating meals that include turmeric or taking supplemental forms of turmeric.

5. Wheatgrass: Wheatgrass is a superfood that is high in nutrient density and is abundant in a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of wheatgrass juice may assist persons with thalassemia boost their haemoglobin levels and lessen the amount of oxidative stress they are under.

6. Ginger: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that has been demonstrated to have immune-boosting qualities. Ginger has been used medicinally for thousands of years. People who have thalassemia may find that consuming ginger in the form of ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to their meals helps reduce inflammation and improves their general health.  

By – Dr. Monica B Sood