MEDICAL MOMENT Below are the most prevalent symptoms of acute porphyrias (AIP, VP, HCP, ADP): - abdominal pain and vomiting - constipation - pain in the back, arms and legs - muscle weakness (due to effects on nerves supplying the muscles) - urinary retention - palpitations (due to a rapid heart rate and often accompanied by increased blood pressure) - confusion, hallucinations and seizures - insomnia Sometimes the level of salt (sodium and chloride) in the blood decreases markedly and contributes to some of these symptoms. See the APF website: www.porphyriafoundation.org |