One thing I can say for sure is that anti-inflammatory food is medicine. It has helped me start healing my body and tapper down on my medication. Generally, I live a better life, because I mind about what I put in my mouth,” adds Lilian.
However, Jane reveals that the best treatment is a steroid known as prednisolone. Other drugs, include methotrexate, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, tocilizumab or rituximab. Once diagnosed, drugs may be given by mouth or vein depending on the type and severity. Usually, medication starts with a higher dose then the dose keeps reducing.
The best thing about this condition, Jane says is that some types go away on their own. For example, if the cause is an allergic reaction to a certain drug, it may go away on its own within days.
“I started with six milligrammes of a steroid called yescort per day, but with time, I have managed to taper down to only three milligrammes a day, which literary feels like winning an Oscar. I hope to go on remission soon and only do management using an antiinflammatory diet and supplements,” she sighs.
Jane says that though it is now easier to diagnose vasculitis compared to the past, failure to seek healthcare services in good time and non-adherence to medication can result in severe forms, and damage to the body organs, such as the heart, lungs and kidneys. Other parts of the body that maybe affected by vasculities, include the nose, eyes, digestive and nervous system and joints, hence causing complications, such as loss of limbs and blindness. .
Early detection and treatment is the best way to prevent this condition from impacting the quality of life. In some cases, organs in the body may be damaged, especially if they do not receive enough nutrient and oxygen, and in worst cases, death may occur. “The use of combined management of the condition by specialists, treatment becomes holistic and with good outcome,” adds jane.
Frequent check-ups with the physicians, eating anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, medication adherence, doing mild exercises, and sometimes skipping activities like walking and bathing can be helpful.
Though Lilian considers herself lucky, because she can continue with her work, she says the condition left her with physical and emotional scars. At one point, she could not wear short dresses, because they would expose the scars on her legs.
However, things have changed over time as she learns to accept herself, and now she can put on short dresses and shorts. She has even embarked on a mission to create awareness about the condition.
Also, there’s the challenge of preparing her body for pregnancy. With th is, she always feels like she is preparing to go to war, and her greatest fear is her children inheriting the disorder from her.
“I have made peace with my scars and the rest of the world will have to adjust. I have also started a Facebook page, Autoimmune Support Kenya to bring together people with autoimmune diseases and provide a safe place for them to meet and share their experiences. I aim to support where I can, more so mental support, because sometimes it takes a toll on patients mentally, physically and financially,” she says.
