How Can I Deal With The Pain?
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There are several first-line treatment options for managing ITP:
• Corticosteroids like prednisone
• Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
• Rituximab to block immune cells from destroying platelets
• Thrombopoietin receptor agonists to boost platelet production
• Splenectomy in more severe cases
• Immunosuppressant medications
The right treatment depends on your specific situation and severity of symptoms. Over 80% of newly diagnosed patients see improvement with IVIG, while 60-80% respond well to corticosteroids initially. To effectively manage your condition:
• Work closely with your doctor to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment as needed
• Attend regular checkups for blood work and platelet count monitoring
• Take medications exactly as prescribed
• Report any new bleeding or bruising symptoms promptly
• Discuss vaccination needs with your healthcare provider
• Ask about which over-the-counter pain medications are safe to use, as some like NSAIDs can thin blood
• Avoid contact sports and high-risk activities that could cause injury
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