What is acute intermittent porphyria?
A person with acute intermittent porphyria has episodes of abnormally high levels of porphyrins in the bloodstream. Porphyrins are molecules that the body uses to make hemoglobin. High levels of porphyrins are toxic to the brain, nerves, skin and gastrointestinal tract.

What are the symptoms of acute intermittent porphyria?
Common symptoms of acute intermittent porphyria include abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, muscle aches, and weakness. Other symptoms include depression, hallucinations, and delusions.

How does the doctor treat an acute intermittent porphyria?
Acute intermittent porphyria may be controlled with a special diet and avoiding alcohol and sun exposure. Acute episodes of this disease are treated with medications and oxygen therapy. Some may benefit by removal of the spleen.