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METHEMOGLOBINEMIA: AN UNCOMMON HEMOGLOBIN DISORDER"

METHEMOGLOBINEMIA

DEFINITION
Methemoglobinemia is a blood disorder where an unusual quantity of methemoglobin is generated. Methemoglobin is a formation of hemoglobin in which the iron in the heme group is in the Fe³⁺ state, not the Fe²⁺ state of usual or standard hemoglobin state. This switch puts a stop to methemoglobin from releasing oxygen to body tissues.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of methemoglobinemia can be dissimilar based on the amount or quantity of methemoglobin in the blood-
Mild Symptoms (methemoglobin levels 1-20%):Cyanosis (bluish or grayish skin color, especially detectable on lips and fingers)Headache,Fatigue,Shortness of breath,Moderate Symptoms includes (methemoglobin levels 20-50%)😁izziness,Weakness,Confusion,etc.in some cases rapid heartbeat is noticed.
Severe Symptoms (methemoglobin levels 50-70%):Altered mental state (lethargy, stupor)Severe shortness of breath, state of senselessness
Critical Symptoms (methemoglobin levels >70%):Coma,Death, if not treated punctually Or on time it can cause serious changes.
Cure Treatment for methemoglobinemia depends on its acuteness and severeness and the underlying cause includes:
Mild Cases😮ften settle spontaneously once the openness to the causative agent is stopped.
Moderate to Severe Cases:Methylene Blue: This is the primary cure for methemoglobinemia. It helps metamorphose methemoglobin back to hemoglobin. It is operated through blood.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): This can also help reduce methemoglobin levels but is less effectual and moderate than methylene blue.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: In severe cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be used to raise the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood.
Exchange Transfusion: In utmost cases, a blood exchange might be necessary.

Conclusion

Methemoglobinemia is undoubtedly a serious condition that exert influence on the blood's capacity to carry and release oxygen efficaciously. Quick and speedy identification and treatment are important and crucial, mainly and mostly bin severe cases. Avoiding known causes, such as certain things , can help to prevent episodes in sensitive individuals. If treated properly and correctly, most individuals can convalesce or recuperate fully without long-term effects.

  1. Methemoglobaneima


    1. Hi, again,,,
      Did your son received effective treatment?
      Hope so!

      Gina Miller,
      Team member

  2. My son has this. He inherited from his dad. His type has very few and all are relatives.


    1. That's good that your son didn't need treatment for the methemoglobinemia, although he gets pain from it. Thanks for sharing the fun memory of when he was young and seeing new docs 😀

      He's VERY lucky to have been able to receive a living donor kidney transplant after being exposed to burning pits through his courageous military service. Thank goodness for such brave souls. A friend in New Mexico recently donated one of her kidneys to a friend in need. So very loving, and brave, of her.

      Blessings, for your dear son's continued well-being!

      Gina Miller,
      Team Member

    2. Beautifully written!
      Yes, the stories of those suffering with many rare diseases can certainly teach us about perseverance, and faith... and in this case, as you point out, the grave importance of organ donation. Here in California, it's marked on our IDs/drivers' licenses.

      I know that there's always a long waitlist for transplant... having a live donor option for a kidney is a godsend for those who are gifted with this miracle.

      Gina Miller,
      Team Member
      Raredisease.net

  3. Thanks to one and all for supporting this topic

    1. This is rare one and well said and explained

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