PORPHYRIA is a general term used to describe several different enzyme deficiency disorders. These disorders are caused by an over production of porphyrins, normal body chemicals that do not usually accumulate.
PORPHYRIA can be inherited or acquired. The two types that can be acquired are PORPHYRIA CUTANAE TARDA AND INTOXICATION PORPHYRIA. I have HEREDITARY COPROPORPHYRIA as do several members of my family.
PORPHYRIA is rarely diagnosed because it's symptoms mimmic other, more common diseases and ailments. These symptoms include abdominal and/or back pain (tolerable at first but increasing in intensity within 24-48 hours), nausea, vomiting, constipation, tachycardia, hypertension, pain in limbs, neck, head and chest, muscle weakness, sensory loss, fine tremors, restlessness, excess sweating, anxiety, insomnia, depression, sun sensitivity, disorientation, paranoia, and skin lessions. Some types also present symptoms of flourescent teeth, receding gums, excess hair and fingernail growth.
PORPHYRIA is tested by requesting that your doctor collect a 24-hour urine sample from you. Your doctor sends the sample to the Mayo Clinic and test results are usually back within 2-3 weeks. A 24-hour stool sample and blood work will be required if initial testing reveals elevated porphyrin levels.
PORPHYRIA is historically thought to be the disease that King George III and other members of British royalty had. It is also commonly and cruely reffered to by some (yes, even medical professionals) as THE VAMPIRE DISEASE, THE WEREWOLF DISEASE, THE ROYAL MALADY, or MENTAL ILLNESS.
PORPHYRIA is life threatening and THERE IS NO CURE! Some victims can be relieved by heme-infusion therapy, however, many with this disorder cannot have heme-infusion because of tachycardia or other physical conditions. Carbohydrate therapy is helpful in reducing symptoms for those that cannot receive heme-infusion.
PORPHYRIA is one of three disorders contracted by Vietnam Veterans from exposure to Agent Orange. The VA financially compensates Vietnam Veterans with PORPHYRIA CUTANAE TARDA. This disorder is said by some noted researchers to be directly connected to Gulf War Syndrome, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Silicone Poisoning, and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity.
PORPHYRIA is the name of a "discipline" in a popular vampire role-playing game. This game is suggested by several media sources to be the catalyst for numerous injuries, assaults and at least one murder across the United States by it's members. These members are usually teenagers or young adults.
PORPHYRIA PLACE is open to discuss all aspects regarding this disorder. Since the discovery of the Porphyrias in the late 1700's, little has been done to combat the myths and ever-growing popularity of midevil folklore surrounding these disorders. Modern culture seems to thrive from such cruelty and ignorance. The time has come to expose and confront such injustices in order to find a cure for the disease that disables and kills thousands each year.
"Tammy's strength and courage to raise awareness for this disease is truly remarkable!" - Amazon Books reader review
THE PORPHYRIA PHENOMENON is an interactive, fully moderated lecture including individual information packets, Q&A session and book autographing. For information on how your organization can sponsor and appearance by Tammy Evans send a S.A.S.E. to 106 Thunderbay Center, Suite 213, Alpena, MI. 49707. Please include organization's official title and contact person.
PORPHYRIA LINKS
MORE INFORMATION ON PORPHYRIA
INTOXICATION PORPHYRIA...Gulf War Syndrome?
VARIEGATE PORPHYRIA AFFECTING TENS OF THOUSANDS OF SOUTH AFRICANS
GULF WAR VETERAN RESOURCE PAGES...Loaded with info on GWS, Agent Orange exposure and Porphyria
***WEAR A PURPLE LAPEL RIBBON!*** Show your support for a cure!
© 1997stillpub@northland.lib.mi.us
GUESTS HAVE VISITED PORPHYRIA PLACE SINCE FEBRUARY 23, 1997