Tips to Deal with aHUS or Atypical Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome

Atypical Haemolytic Syndrome or aHUS is a rare disease characterised by low platelet count and low red blood cell circulation levels due to an impaired kidney function. It is a genetic disorder that needs prompt medical attention and the right treatment.

If you or a loved one suffers from aHUS, it’s vital to obtain professional support services like Alexion Australia to help you navigate the challenges of diagnosis, treatment and recovery. It is reported that two-in-one million Australians are battling the ultra-rare disease, aHUS that tends to become life-threatening for 10 percent of patients within the first year of diagnosis if left untreated.

Here are some tips to help you cope with aHUS: 

Watch your Diet

Several environmental triggers, including diet, can stimulate aHUS. Certain foods can cause flare-ups. Therefore follow a stringent diet regimen by avoiding contaminated food, low salt intake and identifying allergy-causing foods and knowing proper substitutes. Consume a healthy diet and consult with a dietician to help you plan.

Manage Stress

It’s easy to get stressed when dealing with such a rare disease. Practising mindfulness and other relaxation techniques can help you cope with stress. Physicians in Australia recommend to dwell in the present and conquer stress with meditation and other mindfulness techniques to deal with the disease’s ill-effects.

Join a Support Group

In Australia, almost two‐thirds of patients with aHUS were female, with a similar percentage of cases reported in the global representations. The rarity of this disease does not mean you are alone. However, you might lack access to reliable information and may not find the right healthcare services. 

This is where joining patient associations such as Alexion Australia can help you connect with support groups that may have experienced a similar situation. Moreover, such support groups can empower you with the right knowledge of treatment practises and procedures for your condition.

Recognise Depression Signs and Tackle

aHUS is a genetic condition that affects the kidney, and most patients end up requiring dialysis. According to a study, depression symptoms are prevalent in dialysis patients in Australia. 

Therefore patients with aHUS need psychological assistance. Signs of depression can include loss of appetite and sleep, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, irritability and lack of focus. Ensure to identify these signs and seek counselling services from support groups.

Take the Right Steps to Recovery

It’s essential to seek the help of your friends and family members. Treatment options for aHUS include intravenous feeding to maintain fluid balance, blood transfusion and administration of certain drugs to manage symptoms. You should keep a tab on your symptoms and have the right information about the treatments to stay clear.

Establishing a timely diagnosis and the appropriate treatment protocol is imperative to handle the symptoms of aHUS patients in Australia. Eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody medication has significantly improved the evolution in aHUS patients. Ensure to access the right treatment options and expert counsel of medical practitioners to head your way to recovery. 

Support groups are a primary means to understand the best course of action when diagnosed with this rare medical condition. Get ongoing support throughout the journey with the professional assistance of networks like Alexion Australia for optimal care for those living with aHUS. 

With a new class of drugs and medical breakthroughs in Australia for aHUS patients, it’s essential to find the right local health provider to cater to your distinct treatment needs.