What is Lupus?
What is Lupus?
Blog Article
Lupus is a long-term immune system condition where the body's defense mechanism mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells, resulting in inflammation, swelling, and destruction. This condition can affect various bodily systems, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and brain.
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There are various forms of lupus, with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) being the most recognized form. Other types include discoid lupus, which mainly targets the skin, and drug-induced lupus, caused by certain medications.
The Origins of Lupus
The true cause of lupus is unknown, but experts believe it is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Those with a family history of lupus may be more likely of developing the disease.
Environmental triggers like the sun's rays, infections, or particular treatments can set off lupus in patients who are genetically susceptible. Hormones also contribute, which is why lupus occurs more frequently in women, especially between the ages of 15 and 44.
Symptoms of Lupus
Lupus manifests with a variety of signs, which may differ from individual to individual. The most typical symptoms include:
Fatigue: Severe exhaustion is one of the most prevalent symptoms in people with lupus.
Joint pain and swelling: Many people report pain, stiffness, and swelling in their joints, especially in the morning.
Skin rashes: A malar rash across the cheeks and nose is a hallmark sign of lupus, but rashes can also appear in other areas of the body.
Fever: Unexplained fevers may occur without any apparent cause.
Hair loss: Hair loss is frequent in lupus sufferers, and some may even experience bald patches.
When the condition is more advanced, lupus can lead to complications in vital organs, such as the kidneys, lungs, and heart.
Diagnosing Lupus
Diagnosing lupus can be tricky because its symptoms resemble those of many other conditions. Physicians use a combination of lab work, X-rays, and clinical evaluations to diagnose the condition.
Some tests used are:
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test: An elevated ANA result often signals an autoimmune disorder, although it’s not specific to lupus.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): This test detects inflammation in the body and is often elevated in people with lupus.
Urinalysis: Testing for abnormalities in urine can indicate kidney involvement in lupus.
Managing Lupus
Although lupus cannot be cured, medical options are available to control symptoms and improve quality of life. Care strategies vary depending on the progression of the condition but may include:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications reduce pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroids: In more serious cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed 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.