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CIDP

What Are the Stages of CIDP?

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Among autoimmune diseases, chronic immune demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an extremely rare neurological disorder that is difficult to diagnose. Although the cause of this condition is unknown, many patients have successfully recovered with proper medical treatment and care. The stages of CIDP are slow and progress over time.

Stages of CIDP

CIDP is a chronic condition with symptoms that develop over the course of 8 weeks or longer and last several months to several years.

This autoimmune disease attacks the myelin sheath (the fatty covering that protects nerve fibers), causing peripheral neuropathy over time.

CIDP prognosis can vary greatly depending on several factors:

  • How soon treatment begins after the onset of the condition.
  • How a patient reacts to the treatment.

Since CIDP symptoms progress slowly and the disease is difficult to diagnose, proper treatment and therapy may not be provided for several months or even years. If treatment is delayed, a patient’s response to therapy may not be as effective. They may have already developed irreversible nerve damage or permanent disability.

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Types of CIDP

Progressive

Some CIDP cases can be progressive, meaning symptoms worsen over time.

Recurrent

Others are categorized as recurrent, where the disease appears in episodes that come and go.

Single Incident

CIDP can also be marked by a single incident that lasts for one to three years, then does not recur.

Can CIDP Be Cured?

Most patients who seek treatment early can recover.  However, some may experience permanent numbness or weakness due to mild nerve damage.

Recommended Dietary Changes

To help prevent additional pain and discomfort, CIDP patients should avoid foods that cause inflammation.

Foods That May Cause Inflammation:

Healthy Foods for CIDP
  • Fatty foods
  • Processed junk food
  • Sugar and high-fructose corn syrup
  • Artificial trans fats
  • Vegetable and seed oils
  • Refined carbohydrates
  • Excessive alcohol
  • Processed meat

Instead, Incorporate:

  • Plenty of fruits
  • Vegetables that are high in antioxidants
  • Foods rich in omega-3 like salmon or flaxseed

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Life for CIDP patients

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Living with a rare autoimmune disease can create a lot of uncertainty. It is important to be open to help from medical professionals and other people in your life.

Start by being diligent with your treatment and communicate regularly with your doctor.

As you undergo treatment, you will be closely monitored to observe how your body reacts.

This may require:

  • Frequent doctor visits
  • Variety of prescribed medications
  • Therapies including corticosteroids
  • Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
    • Plasma exchange
    • Immunosuppressant drugs

In addition to medication, patients may need to incorporate physical therapy to rebuild motor functions or occupational therapy to learn new ways to accomplish daily tasks.

Many patients are also advised to join support groups if they are experiencing depression due to their physical limitations. You may need to rely on relatives, close friends, or even medical professionals to help with daily activities due to limited mobility.

If you or someone close to you has recently been diagnosed with CIDP, know that you are not alone and that treatment is available. Seek treatment immediately and look out for relapses to help minimize the impact of this disease.

This information is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about your medical condition prior to starting any new treatment. AmeriPharma™ Specialty Care assumes no liability whatsoever for the information provided or for any diagnosis or treatment made as a result, nor is it responsible for the reliability of the content. AmeriPharma™ Specialty Care does not operate all the websites/organizations listed here, nor is it responsible for the availability or reliability of their content. These listings do not imply or constitute an endorsement, sponsorship, or recommendation by AmeriPharma™ Specialty Care. This webpage may contain references to brand-name prescription drugs that are trademarks or registered trademarks of pharmaceutical manufacturers not affiliated with AmeriPharma™ Specialty Care.
MEDICALLY REVIEWED BY AmeriPharma Pharmacy Staff

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