Hereditary coproporphyria – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Thursday, May 24, 2018 by Janine Acero

A hereditary coproporphyria (HCP) is a rare metabolic disorder marked by a deficiency of the enzyme coproporphyrinogen oxidase, which is essential to the creation of heme, a part of hemoglobin and other hemoproteins. This enzyme deficiency results in abnormally high levels of porphyrin precursors in the body.

HCP is primarily inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. People who have inherited porphyria from one or both parents have deficiencies in certain enzymes which help with normal hemoglobin functions.

Other factors that may trigger the development of HCP include hormonal changes, use of certain drugs, excess alcohol consumption, infections and dietary changes such as fasting.

HCP is mostly reported from Europe and North America but is expected to occur in all ethnic groups.

HCP typically manifests after puberty in heterozygotes, and more commonly in women. The course and severity of HCP vary from person to person.

Known risk factors and symptoms of hereditary coproporphyria

HCP is an inherited condition; a family history of HCP increases the risk of a newborn developing it. Other risk factors may include:

Taking certain drugs and medications (antibiotics, birth control pills, psychoactive drugs, hormone replacement drugs, anxiety/depression medications)
Exposure to toxic chemicals
Nutrient deficiencies
Frequently dieting or fasting
Smoking cigarettes and excessive drinking
High levels of stress
Recurring infections or other illnesses
History of liver disease
Hormonal imbalance
Excessive sun exposure
Excess iron

The following signs and symptoms of HCP are caused by the coproporphyrin buildup in the body:

Anxiety or paranoia
Chest pains
Concentration problems
Digestive problems and abdominal pains
Heart palpitations
High blood pressure
Insomnia
Memory loss and confusion
Muscle pains
Seizures
Swelling and fluid buildup in the stomach
Tenderness in the legs and back
Trouble breathing
Weakness

Body systems harmed by hereditary coproporphyria

Porphyria is incurable and difficult to manage, which can lead to various complications. These include:

Coma
Gallstones
Liver disease and failure
Paralysis
Respiratory failure
Skin scarring

Patients may not be diagnosed until after the damage has been done. Permanent damage may include:

Anxiety attacks
Breathing difficulties requiring continuous oxygen
Scarring
Walking problems

Food items or nutrients that may prevent hereditary coproporphyria

Nutrient deficiency is among the risk factors for porphyria disorders. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet full of nutritious whole foods can help manage the symptoms. A porphyria treatment diet should include:

Healthy fats – Healthy fats help manage blood glucose levels and regulate appetite to help you maintain a healthy weight. Coconut oil, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocado are good sources of healthy fats.
High-antioxidant foods – Antioxidants help lower inflammation and protect the body from free radical damage. Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables are among the best sources of antioxidants.
Unprocessed carbohydrates – Complex, unprocessed carbohydrates include ancient grains (Khorasan wheat, millet, barley, oats, bulgur, sorghum, farro, quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat, and chia), beans or legumes, and organic/locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Maintaining a healthy liver is also an important part of managing porphyria disorders. The liver helps the body detox, processing excess hormones and regulating porphyria levels. Maintain liver health by avoiding the following:

Heavy drinking
High sodium intake
Long-term use of medications and hormone replacement drugs
Low potassium intake
Obesity
Saturated fats and processed foods
Unprotected sex
Untreated viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and viruses

Treatments, management plans for hereditary coproporphyria

Nutrient-rich diets, as well as lifestyle changes, are important parts of treatment and management for HPC, which may include:

Aloe vera – Aloe vera acts as an antibiotic, rather than as a topical ointment and wonderfully subside the pain and discomfort, instantly. It has an excellent healing capability.
Bay leaf – Bay leaf is another effective herb for the treatment of porphyria. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which effects of this herb are very effective for treating the symptoms caused due to porphyria.
Ginger – Ginger is well-known for its anti-inflammatory activity. Take a half-inch piece of ginger in a cup of hot water. Leave it for five to 10 minutes. Add a small teaspoon of honey to make it sweet.
Juice – Fresh juice of carrots, green apples, grapefruits, and cabbage are effective for porphyria. Drink two glasses of fresh juice daily for six months.
Licorice root – Licorice root is one of the best adaptogenic herbs that boost the immune system and helpful for stress, infections, arthritis and depression and also performs as a good antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and helps to control hormones.
Pineapple – Pineapple contains a digestive enzyme which is called bromelain. It helps to digest proteins and speed along the process of digestion. Eat one or two slices of pineapple per day.
Yoga – Yoga helps to stimulate your bowel movements and also relieve stress which is a main cause of porphyria.

Where to learn more

Summary

A hereditary coproporphyria (HCP) is a rare metabolic disorder marked by a deficiency of the enzyme coproporphyrinogen oxidase, which is essential to the creation of heme, a part of hemoglobin.

People who have inherited porphyria from one or both parents have deficiencies in certain enzymes which help with normal hemoglobin functions.

Sources include:

Herbal-Care-Products.com

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