Thank you Graham for replying during these extremely trying times for you.
I am sure you probably know much of the following but will put some interesting details here for anyone else reading.
CIDP is a rare disorder that can affect any age group and the onset of the disorder may begin during any decade of life. CIDP affects males twice as often as females (M2:F1) and the average age of onset is 50. The prevalence of CIDP is estimated to be around 5-7 cases per 100,000 individuals.
Glucocorticoid drugs such as prednisone have proven effective in treating individuals with CIDP. In many cases, individuals with CIDP may respond to corticosteroid treatment alone. However, individuals requiring high doses of corticosteroid drugs may experience side effects that deter long-term therapy. Corticosteroids may also be used in conjunction with other drugs such as those that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressive drugs). Azathioprine, mycophenolate, methotrexate, cyclosporine and cyclophosphamide are immunosuppressive drugs that have been used to treat CIDP but have not been proven to be effective in large patient trials.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been proven to be effective and is often used as a treatment for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. IVIG can enhance the immune system. Very high doses are usually used for initial treatment of CIDP and most patients require continued intermittent treatments. There is a clinical trial of a subcutaneous delivery of immunoglobulin that may be used instead of IVIG.
Plasma exchange (PE) has also been shown to be of benefit in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. This procedure is a method for removing unwanted substances (toxins, metabolic substances and plasma parts) from the blood. Blood is removed from an affected individual and blood cells are separated from plasma. The plasma is then replaced with other human plasma and the patient’s blood cells are transfused back into the affected individual, thus removing only the plasma and its constituents. Similar to IVIG, PE is effective only for a few weeks and may require chronic intermittent treatments.
There is a great deal of interest in using monoclonal antibodies to treat CIDP. Clinical trials are being developed to use rituximab, a monoclonal antibody against immune forming lymphocytes (B cells). Another monoclonal antibody under consideration is alemtuzumab which acts on both B cells and T cells, providing a broader attack on the immune system. Some of the agents that have been found to be effective in multiple sclerosis are now being considered for CIDP. A clinical trial treating patients with fingolimod, a drug that affects the ability of lymphocytes to contribute to immune function, is now underway.
Causes of autoimmune disorders are unknown, however certain foods can aggravate inflammation and make CIDP worse.
Foods to Avoid
Saturated fat and trans fats may increase pro-inflammatory markers, especially in people who are overweight or who have diabetes. Foods that are high in these types of unhealthy fat include red meat, butter, cheese and ice cream. In addition, most processed foods, including fast foods, frozen foods and soups, are made with synthetic trans fat. Sugar and refined carbohydrates may also increase inflammation responses in some people. In general, eating a high-calorie diet can contribute to chronic inflammation.
Foods to Include
Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet for their natural anti-inflammatory properties. These types of food are a good source of antioxidants, which can limit the free radical damage in your body. Fruits and vegetables are high in various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, which has known anti-inflammatory properties. Include essential fats in your diet that are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Certain fatty fish, such as tuna and salmon, are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also take a fish oil supplement.
Hope you see some reversal of the disease soon. 
