Symptom 6: The Heart of the Matter: Cardiovascular Complications in Porphyria
Cardiovascular symptoms are another manifestation of acute porphyria. These can range from tachycardia, or increased heart rate, to hypertension, or high blood pressure. In severe cases, porphyria can also lead to cardiac arrhythmias or irregular heart rhythms.
The cardiovascular system is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which is affected during an acute porphyria attack due to the excess porphyrins. This disruption can lead to various cardiovascular symptoms. While these symptoms might not be directly life-threatening, they can contribute to the overall severity of an acute attack and complicate its management.
Managing these cardiovascular symptoms often involves treating the underlying porphyria attack. However, symptomatic treatment may also be required, such as medication to control high blood pressure or regulate the heart rate. It’s important to manage these symptoms effectively to prevent potential complications and enhance the patient’s overall wellbeing. (6)
