Pyroluria is a blood disorder that results from a genetic predisposition in combination with a chronic level of stress can cause excess pyrroles to bind with b-6 and deprive the body of b-6 and zinc. Both of these nutrients are critical in central nervous system function and when deficient can result in an abnormal EEG. That’s correct. Excess pyrroles can be a root cause for seizures. The better news is, when identified, it can redirect the focus from neurological epilepsy or a seizure disorder to a disorder that can often be resolved with specific nutrients.
Pyroluria is also more common than we think. Excess pyrroles can create numerous mental health issues, including schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder and autism to name a few. Manifestations of symptoms can vary greatly due to biochemical individuality. If you find that other family members have shared a diagnosis as mentioned above and you or your loved one are experiencing seizures, this test is warranted.
Symptoms due to pyroluria can vary from mild to significant. But here’s a fairly comprehensive list of symptoms that may appear:
- poor stress control
- poor short-term memory
- reading disorder
- sensitivity to noise and bright lights
- little or no dream recall
- spleen area pain
- poor growth
- many fears
- dry skin
- underachievement
- tendency to skip breakfast
- frequent infections
- extreme mood swiings
- severe inner tension
- abnormal fat distribution
- affinity for spicy or salty foods
- high anxiety
- delayed puberty
- abnormal EEG.
The diagnosis can result from a simple urine test for kryptopyrrole quantitative urine that costs about $85. Testing for copper and zinc levels as well as ceruloplasm are also warranted. The total test for kryptopyrrole, copper, zinc and ceruloplasm is $296. All of these levels can be ordered through my website, here, or through Labcorp or Qwest labs. I’ve had my clients order these labs through their physician when they prefer to use insurance.
The treatment for pyroluria requires minimal nutrients including zinc, B6 (higher doses of these) and magnesium, vitamin C and other antioxidants and may achieve resolution fairly quickly. A word of caution: increasing zinc and or B6 too quickly may create copper “dumping” which can exacerbate symptoms so please only add in with a positive test result and and support of a qualified practitioner.
Bringing much light,
Lynn
