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Real members of myMPNteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I’m interested to know what part inflammation has to play in symptoms of ET. Can this inflammation be controlled?

A myMPNteam Member asked a question 💭
Fort Gratiot, MI
5 days ago
 · 
Reactions
A myMPNteam Member

Here is the short answer. There are many scientific papers written on it.
Essential thrombocythemia (ET) causes chronic inflammation because the underlying JAK2 gene mutations hyperactivate blood-producing cells to release high levels of inflammatory signaling proteins called cytokines.
I have felt significantly better since following an anti inflammatory diet.
Hope you feel better. I follow my symptoms and just glance at my numbers.

4 days ago
A myMPNteam Member

Well worth trying both Green Tea and Curcumin, excellent anti-inflammatories. Green tea in particular is known to actively reduce CRP markers.

1 day ago
myMPNteam

Inflammation plays a meaningful role in ET symptoms. The abnormal platelet activity that comes with ET can trigger inflammatory responses in blood vessels, contributing to symptoms like:

- Headaches
- Burning or tingling in the hands and feet
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Blurred vision

This inflammation can also Show Full Answer

Inflammation plays a meaningful role in ET symptoms. The abnormal platelet activity that comes with ET can trigger inflammatory responses in blood vessels, contributing to symptoms like:

- Headaches
- Burning or tingling in the hands and feet
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Blurred vision

This inflammation can also increase the risk of blood clots forming, which is one of the most serious concerns with ET. The good news is that inflammation-related symptoms can often be managed. There are several approaches that may help:

- Low-dose aspirin is commonly used to reduce platelet activity, which in turn helps lower inflammation and the risk of clotting
- Hydroxyurea can reduce abnormal blood counts, which may ease inflammatory symptoms
- Jakafi (Ruxolitinib), a JAK inhibitor, has shown success in managing symptoms driven by inflammation, though it's generally not the first treatment tried
- Antihistamines like Claritin or Zyrtec may help with inflammation-related itching

It's really important to work closely with a hematologist to find the right approach for your specific situation, as treatments are tailored based on age, risk level, and overall health.

5 days ago
A myMPNteam Member

Does that also work for PV, Jak2 Negative patients?

1 day ago
A myMPNteam Member

I have ET due to a CalR mutation rather than a Jak2 mutation. I haven't read scientific papers but it does appear that inflammation affects my platelet level. That's what my MPN specialist said, when I asked him why my platelet level went down after I had outpatient surgery to remove 3 over-producing parathyroid glands from my neck.

4 days ago

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