Question
Why does purpura still recur during the medication period?
Answer
Corticosteroids are effective for some purpura patients, helping to stabilize symptoms, particularly for those with abdominal pain and hematochezia. However, they cannot prevent disease outbreaks. Long-term use of steroids can lead to further immune system disorder, with numerous side effects and difficulty in discontinuation. Traditional Chinese medicine categorizes purpura as ’eruption of spots’ and the treatment principle is based on clearing heat and detoxifying, cooling blood and resolving stasis. Commonly used medications include modified Shijiao Dihuang Decoction. For patients with excessive bleeding that does not stop, pale complexion, palpitations, and shortness of breath, it is necessary to nourish Yin and invigorate the spleen, as well as tonify Qi and control bleeding. Commonly used medications include modified Guipi Decoction.