After confirming the diagnosis of the disease through the sophisticated techniques, and the report generated confirm the present of mesenteric lymphadenitis, proper strategy for the treatment is decided on the basis of causative agent and severity of the disease. Apart from the main treatment, various alternative treatments can also be used.
Are There Any Alternative Treatments For Mesenteric Lymphadenitis?
Apart from the general treatment for mesenteric lymphadenitis, which includes antibiotics, analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, there are certain other alternative treatments that also help in fighting the disease and have lesser side effects as compared to the main treatment. Following are the alternative treatment techniques which a patient can use:
Combating Infection: The primary reason for the mesenteric lymphadenitis is infection. So, it is better to have a prophylactic treatment to improve the immune system of the body. Further, the alternative treatment may also be adopted after contracting infection, so as assist body in fighting infection. Various ingredients, which are immune-boosters, should be incorporated in to the diet. These ingredients includes garlic, which has anti-inflammatory property, apple cider vinegar which has immunomodulating property, honey which reduces the swelling and pain and turmeric to reduce inflammation.
Vitamins And Minerals: Vitamins and minerals are also used as prophylactic agents against mesenteric lymphadenitis. These agents help in preparing the body in fighting against infections. Further these substances also have anti-oxidant property.
Fluid Intake: As the condition directly involves the gastrointestinal system, the symptoms include diarrhea. Proper fluid intake is required to keep the volume of fluid up to a certain level to reduce the risk of hypovolemic shock. Also, the fluid should include electrolytes which are required for the proper functioning of the body.
Warming Compress: Warming compress is the process by which heat is transferred to the affected area, improving circulation and reducing the swelling. Warming compress techniques for mesenteric lymphadenitis is used on the abdomen so as to improve the blood supply and reduce the swelling of lymph nodes. This will help in easing the symptoms of pain and inflammation.
Exercise: Exercise helps in supply of fresh oxygen in to the organs and thus helps in energy production. Also, the exercise for mesenteric lymphadenitis improves the flow in the lymphatic system, which effectively removes the waste from the lymph nodes.
Rest: As the body is fighting against the mesenteric lymphadenitis, proper rest should be taken. The rest will provide the body to conserve its energy and helps fighting the infection with more power. Further, resting the body will reduce the symptoms of fatigue.
Diagnosis
Various diagnostic methods are used in diagnosing the mesenteric lymphadenitis. The diagnostic techniques range from the preliminary examination, laboratory tests and the confirmation of the disease through the imaging techniques. The laboratory tests include blood test, stool test and urine test while imaging techniques includes CT scan, MRI and Ultrasound.
Conventional Treatment
Very often, the causative factor for the mesenteric lymphadenitis is infection, which can be caused due to bacteria, virus or fungi. The swollen lymph node is an indication that the body is fighting against these pathogens. So, the primary treatment for this condition is use of antibiotics. But prior to this, the diagnostic techniques such as blood test or pathogen culture should confirm the identity of causative pathogen. If the infection is due to bacteria, antibacterial is used; antivirals are used in case of viral infection and antifungals in case of fungal infection. Also, the swollen lymph nodes cause pain and inflammation. These symptoms are managed by the use of analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Use of those NSAIDs should be preferred that have low side effects on the gastrointestinal system.
Conclusion
Apart from the main treatment, few alternative treatments for mesenteric lymphadenitis are used which may act as either prophylaxis to various diseases or act as an adjuvant to the main treatment. These treatments include nutraceutical supplements, vitamins and minerals, rest, adequate fluid intake along with electrolytes and warm compress. The alternative treatment helps to reduce the severity of the disease and also reduces the duration of whole treatment.
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