What is Wilson disease

Wilson disease, also known as Wilson's disease, is a rare genetic disorder. Its main feature is that the body cannot properly excrete excess copper, causing copper to accumulate in organs such as the liver and brain. This accumulation can cause a range of health problems and can even be life-threatening. It is very important for patients and their families to understand the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Wilson disease.

Symptoms of Wilson's disease may vary from person to person, but common ones include liver problems, such as abnormal liver function and jaundice; neurological problems, such as tremors and difficulty coordinating movements; and psychiatric symptoms, including mood swings and behavioral changes. These symptoms usually begin to appear in childhood or adolescence, but may not be discovered until adulthood. Imagine a pool with water constantly flowing in but unable to drain. Over time, the water will naturally overflow and cause damage, just like the accumulation of copper in the body.

Diagnosing Wilson disease usually requires a battery of tests, including blood and urine tests for copper levels, liver function tests, and an eye exam to detect Kayser-Fleischer rings, which are copper deposits on the cornea. Genetic testing can also help confirm the diagnosis. The diagnostic process is like a jigsaw puzzle, with clues piece by piece to finally piece together the complete picture of the disease.

The key to treating Wilson's disease is to reduce the accumulation of copper in the body. Doctors usually prescribe medications to help the body excrete excess copper or to prevent copper absorption. Dietary adjustments are also part of treatment, and patients need to avoid eating high-copper foods, such as shellfish, nuts, and chocolate. Imagine that treatment is like adding a drain to a pool to help remove excess water to avoid overflowing.

Although Wilson's disease is a chronic disease, most patients can live a relatively normal life through early diagnosis and continuous treatment. For patients and their families, understanding the disease, actively cooperating with treatment, and maintaining an optimistic attitude are important weapons to defeat the disease. Just like in life, although we cannot choose the weather, we can choose to wear the right clothes to cope with it. I hope that every Wilson's disease patient can find the "clothes" that suit them and face the challenges of life bravely.