PORPHYRIA, THE DISEASE THAT CREATED DRACULA
Source: Diane Evans at metabolic-disorders.suite101.com
Christopher Lee as Dracula
Symptoms of Porphyria
In some forms of the disease, abdominal pain and cramping may occur. Light sensitivity causes rashes and problems with the nervous system. The patient may also experience muscle pain, weakness or paralysis in the arms, legs or back and occasionally, personality changes may be noticed.
Acute attacks can involve electrolyte imbalances, low blood pressure and shock. Such attacks occur suddenly and often involve severe stomach pain, vomiting and constipation. Exposure to sunlight may cause pain, blistering and skin redness and swelling. The blisters heal slowly and may result in scarring, changes in skin color, and possibly cause disfigurement.
“Porphyrin” and “porphyria” are terms derived the Greek word “porphyrus” which means purple. After an acute attack, the urine may be brown or red due to a build up of excess porphyrins which are excreted in the urine and the stool.
What Causes Porphyria?
The porphyrias are a classification of at least 8 different diseases which are caused by abnormalities in heme production. Heme is part of the hemoglobin in blood that has the ability to carry oxygen. It is a porphyrin molecule which contains iron and gives blood its red color. Also it functions in the liver to break down chemicals so that they can be excreted in the form of urine or in feces. These are life-long diseases and the symptoms may come and go.
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NB: I hope the following words do not trigger any one, they do not mean to offend
Eeek, and charming. And, *cringe*, really. And, well , sad. Whenever I’m reminded of the fact that Porphyria is the disease that is suggested to have ‘created Dracula’, I have a bit of a muse over the fact about how romanticised the subject of Vampires has become. I’d much rather be told I’m a vampire than be told I have Porphyria. Or, maybe not. I’d much rather stay as I am, thanks.
Did you know about the connection between the Vampire Legend and Porphyria?
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