Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT)

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome, is a genetic disorder that affects the blood vessels. It is an inherited condition that can lead to abnormal growth of blood vessels in various parts of the body. This condition is characterized by the formation of small, fragile blood vessels called telangiectasias that can bleed easily, leading to a range of symptoms. HHT affects approximately 1 in 5,000 people worldwide and is equally common in both men and women.

Causes and Risk Factors:

HHT is caused by mutations in the genes that regulate blood vessel formation. Inherited from one or both parents, the mutated genes can cause blood vessels to form abnormally, leading to the formation of telangiectasias. The most common genes involved in HHT are ENG (encoding endoglin) and ACVRL1 (encoding activin receptor-like kinase 1).

Symptoms:

The symptoms of HHT vary depending on the location and severity of the telangiectasias. The most common symptoms include recurrent nosebleeds, skin discoloration, and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the lungs, brain, or liver. These AVMs can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, migraine headaches, and neurological symptoms.

Prevention and Treatment:

There is no cure for HHT, and the treatment is aimed at managing the symptoms and complications associated with the condition. The treatment options may include medications to prevent or stop bleeding, laser therapy to remove visible telangiectasias, embolization or surgery to treat AVMs, and blood transfusions in case of severe bleeding.

Possibility of Oriental Medicine:

Oriental medicine, including acupuncture and acupressure, can be used to manage the symptoms of HHT. Acupuncture, a form of traditional Chinese medicine, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. It has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity and frequency of migraines and other neurological symptoms associated with HHT. Acupressure, a similar technique to acupuncture but without the use of needles, can also be helpful in managing pain and other symptoms.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, HHT is a genetic disorder that affects the blood vessels and can lead to a range of symptoms. While there is no cure for this condition, the treatment options can help manage the symptoms and complications associated with it. Oriental medicine, including acupuncture and acupressure, can also be used to manage the symptoms of HHT. If you suspect that you or someone you know has HHT, it is essential to seek medical attention to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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