During an allogeneic transplant, a healthcare expert introduces hematopoietic stem cells from a donor into the host’s body. These donated stem cells eventually turn into mature blood cells. However, in some cases, the donated cells may perceive the host cells as a foreign threat, attacking the recipient’s cells as an immune response. This condition is known as graft versus host disease (GvHD) and can develop into two types, including acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD). Occurrence Healthcare professionals used to classify GvHD based on the timing of the symptom onset. Nowadays, providers diagnose specific types of GvHD based on symptoms and healthcare trials, in addition to the onset of symptoms. Acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD) typically develops shortly after a transplant, usually within the first 100 days. However, the symptoms of this type may appear at a later stage. Another commonly seen type is chronic graft versus host disease (cGvHD), which might develop any time following an allogeneic transplant, with a majority of the cases starting within two years. Symptoms The symptoms of aGvHD can range from mild to moderate to severe, typically affecting the skin, liver, or gastrointestinal tract (GI). Affected persons may also experience a range of symptoms, including a rash or reddened areas on the skin accompanied by itching or pain.

Breast cancer, a condition more common in older women, is a predominantly invasive disease where tumors grow uncontrollably in the breasts. In most cases, doctors prescribe a combination of management options like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, or surgery to fight off the cancer cells. While they hamper disease progression, these treatments may cause some side effects, such as nausea, constipation, vomiting, loss of appetite, exhaustion, and pain. Remedies to alleviate side effects One of the best ways to avoid or lower the chance of side effects of cancer treatment is to opt for relatively safer options like Enhertu, which does not harm healthy cells and targets only cancer cells. Enhertu attaches to certain cancer cell proteins and delivers chemotherapy directly to the cancer cells, reducing some common side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy. That being said, certain home remedies can also lower the chance of or alleviate common side effects of breast cancer. 1. Have smaller meal portions Stomach sickness caused by cancer treatment is a common side effect. To manage that, one can eat smaller portions of meals frequently throughout the day. Eating wholesome, dry, and bland foods and avoiding any strong flavors is recommended.

Myelofibrosis is a form of blood cancer. It causes scar tissue to develop in the bone marrow. A type of chronic leukemia, myelofibrosis also leads to increased production of abnormal blood cells. Over time, these abnormal cells start replacing normal healthy cells, leading to various symptoms such as anemia, which causes weakness and fatigue. Although myelofibrosis is a rare blood cancer, its warning signs and symptoms are often similar to other chronic health conditions. Warning signs of myelofibrosis Myelofibrosis is known to progress slowly over several years. So, the symptoms do not become apparent in the early stages. In fact, nearly one-third of those who are diagnosed with myelofibrosis do not show the signs in the starting stage. Once the symptoms start to show up, they quickly become worse. So, a person usually experiences severe fatigue. Often, the spleen also becomes enlarged. Some of the common warning signs of myelofibrosis include the following- Fever Itching Pale skin Loss of appetite Night sweats Frequent infections Enlarged spleen or liver Bone or joint pain Pain or fullness below the ribs on the left side Unexplained blood clots Abnormal bleeding or bruising Enlarged veins in the stomach and esophagus, which may sometimes rupture and bleed Shortness of breath If any of these symptoms last long, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

Prostate cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in the prostate gland. At times, the condition advances to a stage where it neither spreads nor does it respond to regular cancer treatments. This stage is called non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC). Here, the cancerous cells might grow, but they do not affect organs other than the prostate. Fortunately, today, there are a few ways to manage this advanced cancer stage in consultation with a healthcare expert. Causes Non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) is an advanced form of prostate cancer, the exact cause of which is yet to be determined. That said, prostate cancer itself develops when cells in the organ undergo DNA changes. These alterations compel the cells to grow and divide more rapidly than normal cells. Eventually, the accumulation of abnormal cells can spread to nearby tissues if not promptly treated. Symptoms Those with nmCRPC usually do not notice any symptoms and will be unable to tell if the cancer is growing. Only a healthcare professional would be able to confirm the condition after noticing an increase in the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level. These changes are tracked with the help of blood tests, physical examinations, and scans, including bone, PET, and CT scans.

Plaque psoriasis is one of the most common types of skin disorders, affecting nearly 80% to 90% of adults diagnosed with psoriasis. A few hereditary and external factors can increase the risk of developing the condition. Here, one may experience itching, rashes, and scaly patches on their skin. With early detection and timely treatment, one can manage plaque psoriasis and its symptoms to an extent. Here is what one should know about the disorder: Causes and risk factors When the body’s immune system attacks its own healthy cells, it is known as an autoimmune response. Plaque psoriasis develops when this autoimmune response triggers inflammation and rapid growth of new skin cells. Further, the condition can be triggered by the following factors: Genetics: If one or both parents have the mutated gene that causes psoriasis, then the child has a greater chance of developing the skin disorder. External triggers: Common strep throat infections or skin infections can trigger a psoriasis infection. Also, exposure to extreme weather conditions like cold, dry climates increases the risk of the condition. Even sunburn, cuts, sores, or injuries that do not heal quickly increase the risk of plaque psoriasis. Also, side effects of certain prescriptions can trigger the disease.

Vitiligo is a common condition that causes skin discoloration in patches and premature graying of the hair on one’s scalp, beard, eyebrows, or eyelashes. It occurs when pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) die or stop producing melanin due to an autoimmune condition, hereditary disorder, or a trigger event. Although it can start at any age, symptoms typically appear before the age of 30. Treatment for vitiligo often involves repigmenting the skin using prescription creams such as Opzelura. What is Opzelura? Opzelura (ruxolitinib) cream is an FDA-approved treatment for adolescents and adults with non-segmental vitiligo. It has been proven to scientifically restore pigment in the face and body (up to 10% of the body surface area). It can even be applied around sensitive areas, such as the eyes, mouth, and genitals. How Opzelura works In people with vitiligo, the immune system activates the JAK-STAT pathway, an immune signal, to destroy melanin-producing cells, causing a patchy loss of skin color. Opzelura is a unique treatment focusing on this pathway to reduce melanocyte destruction and restore pigmentation. Using Opzelura It is best to follow the doctor’s advice when using treatments like Opzelura. One must also take precautionary measures, such as limiting time in direct sunlight, wearing protective clothing in the sun, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Polycythemia vera (PV), a rare and chronic blood disorder, is characterized by the excessive production of red blood cells. This disease falls under myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), a group of blood cancers. Although PV primarily affects red blood cells, it can also produce white blood cells and platelets, increasing the risk of blood clots, bleeding, and related complications. Timely diagnosis and careful management can help prevent complications and improve the quality of life for patients. Signs and symptoms Different patients will experience various signs and symptoms of polycythemia vera. Some people may remain asymptomatic for years, while others may experience significant discomfort in the initial stages. Headaches Frequent and severe headaches are a common indication of PV. This symptom occurs due to the increased thickness of blood. Higher viscosity makes it difficult for oxygen to travel to the brain. As a result, affected individuals often experience frequent and intense headaches. Dizziness Vertigo is another common symptom in patients with PV, which is characterized by frequent dizziness or a spinning sensation. These symptoms can significantly increase the risk of accidents and falls for the patient, particularly for older individuals who already struggle with balance issues. Persistent fatigue The body expends a substantial amount of energy in producing excessive cells, which leaves the patient with drained energy to carry out routine tasks.

Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can cause significant damage to multiple parts of the body, including the skin, blood, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs. The condition can be of four types, the most common being systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which affects the entire body. Others include cutaneous lupus erythematosus, which primarily affects the skin; neonatal lupus, which affects electrical impulses; and a type of lupus triggered by certain treatment options. Symptoms of lupus Lupus can cause many symptoms in varying combinations or intensities. That being said, some symptoms are common, such as joint, muscle, and chest pain, headaches, rashes, fever, hair loss, and fatigue. Additionally, mouth sores, shortness of breath, swollen glands, swelling in the arms, legs, or face, confusion, and blood clots are other common symptoms. Lupus can also cause other complications, such as photosensitivity, dry eyes, seizures, anemia, Raynaud’s syndrome, osteoporosis, heart disease, and kidney disease. Lupus treatment Treatment for lupus aims to manage symptoms and reduce the damage to organs and tissues in the body. The choice of treatment plan depends on the severity of the symptoms. – Immunosuppressants In cases of moderate to severe lupus, doctors might recommend immunosuppressants. These options reduce immune activity, mainly that of IFN-1 (type 1 interferon).

Vitiligo is a long-term disorder that causes the skin to lose its pigment or color. This occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets melanocytes—cells that are responsible for producing melanin, the chemical that gives color to one’s skin and hair. When vitiligo affects the melanocytes, the skin turns white or appears lighter. While there is no permanent cure, certain treatments and remedies can help one manage vitiligo symptoms and slow down the condition’s progress. Vitiligo treatment options One can manage the symptoms of vitiligo through various methods, such as phototherapy, surgical intervention, and emotional support. A health expert will help one determine the most effective management option by evaluating several factors, such as the patient’s age, the severity of the condition, the pace of its progression, and the extent of skin affected. Each treatment aims to restore a uniform skin tone through repigmentation (restoring color) or depigmentation (removing the remaining color) of the skin. 1. Light therapy This is a type of phototherapy that helps restore the skin’s color. For this treatment, a healthcare professional like a dermatologist uses ultraviolet B (UVB) lights, light boxes, or medical-grade lasers. Using any of these, the skin is exposed to high-intensity light for a short period.

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is a condition characterized by the inability of the pancreas to produce and release enough enzymes into the small intestine to digest food properly. Various health conditions, such as chronic pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis, can cause EPI. Due to the lack of enough pancreatic enzymes to break down foods, one might experience symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. Understanding its warning signs is crucial for early diagnosis and management. Causes Damage to the pancreas is the most common cause of EPI. Inflammation of the pancreas is a key contributor, which could also trigger swelling. With time, chronic inflammation may damage pancreatic cells that make the digestive enzymes. Other potential causes include Celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diabetes, pancreatic cancer, and surgery on the digestive tract. Symptoms People with EPI may have trouble absorbing fats from foods, resulting in abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. Other symptoms include diarrhea, fatty stools, and unexplained body mass loss. Some people might also feel full even after eating small meals. Management options A healthy meal plan A health expert might recommend a high-calorie, high-fat meal regime to help the body absorb more nutrients. The professional may also suggest eating six small meals daily instead of the traditional three.