What is Lupus?
What is Lupus?
Blog Article
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body's defense mechanism mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation, pain, and damage. This disorder can impact various bodily systems, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and brain.
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There are different types of lupus, with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) being the most recognized form. Other variations of lupus include discoid lupus, which mainly targets the skin, and drug-induced lupus, triggered by certain medications.
The Origins of Lupus
The precise cause of lupus is unknown, but experts believe it results from a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Those with a genetic predisposition to lupus may be more likely of developing the disease.
Environmental triggers such as ultraviolet light, infections, or particular treatments can trigger lupus in patients who are genetically predisposed. Hormones also contribute, which is why lupus is more common in females, especially between the ages of 15 and 44.
Symptoms of Lupus
Lupus manifests with a variety of indications, which can vary from individual to individual. The most typical symptoms include:
Fatigue: Extreme tiredness is a very common symptoms in those with lupus.
Joint pain and swelling: Many patients experience pain, stiffness, and swelling in their joints, particularly after waking up.
Skin rashes: A malar rash across the cheeks and nose is a typical sign of lupus, but rashes can emerge in other locations.
Fever: Persistent fevers often develop without any apparent cause.
Hair loss: Hair loss is prevalent in lupus patients, and some may even suffer from patchy hair loss.
In more serious instances, lupus can result in issues affecting vital organs, such as the kidneys, lungs, and heart.
Lupus Diagnosis
Diagnosing lupus can be challenging because its symptoms are similar to those of a variety of disorders. Healthcare professionals use a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and medical assessments to diagnose the condition.
Some screenings used include:
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test: An abnormal ANA level often signals an autoimmune disorder, although it’s not exclusive to lupus.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): This test monitors the level of inflammation in the body and is often elevated in lupus patients.
Urinalysis: Checking for protein or blood in urine can indicate kidney involvement in lupus.
Lupus Treatments
Although lupus cannot be cured, medical options are available to control symptoms and maintain a good lifestyle. Medical plans are tailored to the progression of the condition but typically consist of:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): This category of drugs ease pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroids: In more serious cases, corticosteroids are often used to suppress the immune system.
Antimalarial drugs: Medications like hydroxychloroquine are used to preventing disease flares.
Regular monitoring and changing treatments as needed are important to living well with lupus.