Capillary Fragility
Description
Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels. If broken, they release blood, causing swelling and bruising.
Causes
Capillaries become increasingly fragile with age, or in response to treatment with corticosteroid drugs and in the presence of vitamin C deficiency (notably scurvy). Vasculitis is an inflammation of blood vessels, usually due to antigens, including viruses. The effect, however, is the same i.e. weakening of the blood vessels. It is the basic disease process in purpura.
Signs & Symptoms
People with fragile capillaries have a tendency to always exhibit small bluish-purple areas of bleeding under their skin (“purpura”).
Nutritional Supplements
Structure & Function:
Circulatory Support &
Antioxidants
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General Supplements
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| Bioflavonoids | 500-2000 mg |
| Proanthocyanidins* | |
| Zinc | 10-30 mg |
* Please refer to the respective topic for specific nutrient amounts.
Note:
All amounts are in addition to those supplements having a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Due to individual needs, one must always be aware of a possible undetermined effect when taking nutritional supplements. If any disturbances from the use of a particular supplement should occur, stop its use immediately and seek the care of a qualified health care professional.
Dietary Considerations
A variety of nutrients have been tried, including the typical range of antioxidants, including: Vitamin C, vitamin E and bioflavonoids along with the mineral zinc.
Where vasculitis is involved, selenium supplementation has also proven beneficial, while one form: “hypersensitivity vasculitis” may require food sensitivities to be taken into consideration.
Homeopathic Remedy
Arnica montana tinct.
Hamamelis virginica
Treatment Schedule
Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies may be single strength (of fairly weak potency e.g. 6X ) or a blend of several weaker strengths (6X, 8X, 10X).
This may comprise a single remedy, or several remedies.
Doses are administered on a 3 times daily (tid), between meals,schedule and continued for 3 days.
Liquid preparations usually use 8-10 drops per dose.
Solid preparations are usually 2 or 3 pellets per dose.
Children use 1/2 dose i.e. 1 pellet.
If there is aggravation of the symptoms, stop taking the remedy and consult a homeopath.
References
Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.
Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.
Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.
Herbal Approaches
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Herbs
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Aloe vera
Bilberry
Capsicum
Gotu kola
Hawthorn
Note: The misdirected use of an herb can produce severely adverse effects, especially in combination with prescription drugs. This Herbal information is for educational purposes and is not intended as a replacement for medical advice.
Aromatherapy - Essential Oils
| Calendula Essence, | Cypress Essence, |
| Lemon Essence. |
Related Health Conditions
Edema
Leg cramps
Restless Legs Syndrome
Varicose veins
References
Cox, B.D. & Butterfield, W.J.: Vitamin C supplements and diabetic cutaneous capillary fragility. BMJ, 1975,3: 205.
Fijii, T.: The clinical effects of vitamin E on purpuras due to vascular defects. J. Vitaminology, 1972, 18: 125 - 130.
Haboubi, N.Y. et al: Zinc deficiency in senile purpura. J. Clin. Path. 1985, 38: 1189 - 1191.
Hiebert, C.A.: Gastroesophageal reflux and ascorbic acid deficiency. Ann. Thorac. Surgery, 1977, 24(2): 108 0 112.
Murray, M.T. & Pizzorno, J.E.: An Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Prima Pbng, Rocklin, CA.
Rea, W.J. : Environmentally triggered small vessel vasculitis. Ann. Allergy, 1977, 38: 245 - 251.
Ryan, R.E.: A new aid to tonsil and adenoid surgery. Clin. Med. 1958,5: 327.
Scarborough, H.: Deficiency of vitamin C and vitamin P in man. Lancet, 1940, 2: 644.
Schorah, C.J. et al: The effect of vitamin C supplements on body weight, serum proteins, and general health of an elderly population. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 1981, 34(5): 871 - 876.
Timberlake, C.F. & Henry, B.S.: Anthocyanins as natural food colorants. Prog. Clin. Biol. Res. 1988, 280: 107 - 121.
Tomson, C.R. et al: Correction of subclinical ascorbate deficiency in patients receiving dialysis: effects on plasma oxalate, serum cholesterol and capillary fragility. Clin. Chim. Acta. 1989, 180(3): 255 - 264.
Will JC & Byers T: Does diabetes mellitus increase the requirement for vitamin C? Nutr Rev, 1996 Jul, 54:7, 193-202.
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