Lymphangiectasia
Intestinal lymphangiectasia is a disorder where improperly formed lymph vessels supplying the lining of the small intestine become enlarged. This can develop at birth or later in life from conditions such as pancreatitis. Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fatty stools are common symptoms. If the disorder developed at birth, a low-fat, high-protein diet and supplements such as calcium can help manage symptoms.
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- Q How can I protect my children from lymphangiectasia?
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Lymphangiectasia is a disorder of the lymphatic system that usually affects children under the age of three. It may be tied to a lack of proper development of the lymph vessels in the womb. There is no specific action parents can take to protect their... Full Answer
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- Q Who is most affected by lymphangiectasia?
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Lymphangiectasia most affects children under the age of three. The condition is marked by swelling and blockage of the lymphatic system that may be tied to lack of proper development of the lymph vessels in the womb. Lymphangiectasia can also develop in... Full Answer
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- Q How do other illnesses affect lymphangiectasia?
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When it affects the small intestine, lymphangiectasia may be caused by another illness. These illnesses include pancreatitis, or a swelling of the pancreas, and inflammation of the tissue around the heart, known as constrictive pericarditis. When this is... Full Answer
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- Q Is lymphangiectasia serious?
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Lymphangiectasia is a serious disorder that most often affects the body's ability to derive nutrients from food or the lungs' ability to process air. Usually the work of the small intestine is compromised and fats and protein cannot be digested properly.... Full Answer
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- Q How do I manage my lymphangiectasia on a daily basis?
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Following a specific diet is the best way to manage intestinal lymphangiectasia on a daily basis. A diet low in fat and high in protein is usually prescribed. The use of supplements such as calcium may also be used. Managing your pulmonary... Full Answer
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- Q Can lymphangiectasia be prevented?
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Lymphangiectasia, both intestinal and pulmonary, usually develops in the womb as the lymphatic system does not form properly, and so there is nothing that can be done to prevent it. The pulmonary type is often detected as part of prenatal testing, but... Full Answer
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- Q Are there alternative treatments for lymphangiectasia?
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Supplements and a dietary regimen are often used to treat intestinal lymphangiectasia, a disorder of the lymphatic system that can affect the small intestine's ability to digest protein and fat. Supplements of a common fat as well as vitamins and... Full Answer
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- Q How do medications treat lymphangiectasia?
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In most cases, changes to the diet rather than medications are used to treat intestinal lymphangiectasia. However, in those cases where medications are used they are usually anti-inflammatory in nature. Lymphangiectasia is a swelling of parts of the... Full Answer
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- Q What are the treatment options for lymphangiectasia?
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Lymphangiectasia in the intestine is most often treated through the diet. A diet high in protein and low in fat is the most effective and common treatment. In some cases, medications and even surgery are considered as options. Pulmonary lymphangiectasia... Full Answer
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- Q Should I talk to my doctor about my lymphangiectasia symptoms?
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The usual symptoms of intestinal lymphangiectasia (the more likely type for people beyond infancy) are common to many other digestive problems. The main symptom is diarrhea along with vomiting, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. If you suffer from another... Full Answer
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