DESCRIPTION:
Goodpasture's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which deposits of antibodies in the kidneys and lungs cause both inflammation of the kidneys (glomerulonephritis) and lung bleeding. Most common in young men, the disease can present at any age, with onset between 16 and 61 years of age (median 21 years).
How does Goodpasture's syndrome develop?
As with all autoimmune disorders, in Goodpasture's syndrome the immune system is fighting the body's own normal tissues. Here the immune system creates antibodies that attack the lungs and kidneys. The target antigen of the Goodpasture's antibodies has been localized to a protein chain (type IV collagen).
The disorder can be triggered by a viral infection or by the inhalation of gasoline or other hydrocarbon solvents. There also have been links made to cigarette smoking and heredity. Death is usually due to renal failure.
What are the symptoms of Goodpasture's syndrome?
Symptoms include foamy, bloody or dark colored urine, decreased urine output, cough with bloody sputum, low-grade fever, difficulty breathing after exertion, weakness, fatigue, nausea or vomiting, weight loss, nonspecific chest pain and pale skin.
Conventional medical treatments may help relieve the symptoms of Goodpasture's disease but they do not address the root of the problem. Generally, by undergoing comprehensive natural medicine testing, the reasons the body is producing antibodies against itself can be found. Some of these reasons include sensitivities or allergies to foods, inhalants and chemicals and various infections.
Discover why we believe that natural medicine treatments are the best way to treat Goodpasture's syndrome.
