1. An Immune System Overload
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to overreact, making it hard for the body to distinguish between foreign invaders and its own tissues and cells. Because of this, the immune system forms antibodies, which causes the body to attack itself. Lupus causes inflammation, pain, swelling and damage to the joints, skin, lungs, brain, heart, kidneys and blood. Common symptoms of lupus include skin rashes, muscle aches, weight loss or hair loss, fatigue, chest pains, seizures or a fever of over 100 degrees.
2. Cause of Lupus Unclear
Lupus has no direct cause, but it has environmental triggers such as hormones, stress, ultraviolet light, infections such as a cold, and antibiotics such as sulfa or penicillin. Genetics also has a link to lupus. Scientists believe that disturbances or disorders of the human leukocyte antigen genes affect the immune system's response, causing lupus. Statistics also show that a person diagnosed with lupus likely has a family member with the same condition.
3. Diagnosis Is a Complex Process
Diagnosis of lupus involves a medical history evaluation and a physical exam. Several lab tests are also given to rule out conditions that mimic lupus. Doctors use criteria written by the American College of Rheumatology to properly diagnose lupus. Some of these tests check for protein in the urine, low white blood cell count and fluid around your heart or lungs. A positive antibody test detects the protein levels in the body, while skin biopsies determine whether the butterfly shaped face rash or mouth ulcer signals lupus. Damage to the major organs also indicates the presence of lupus.
4. Treatment Depends on Severity
A lupus diagnosis means you are prescribed over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medication. Physical therapy and changes to your diet are also required depending on the severity of the illness. NSAIDS, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, relieve muscle aches and arthritis, while hydroxycholorquine treats skin problems. Prednisone reduces organ damage, and immunosuppressive drugs such as azathioprine and cyclosporine regulate the immune system.
5. Healthy Habits Reduce Flares
Rest is vital since stress can induce or increase the symptoms of lupus. If stress is unavoidable, then talk to loved ones or a counselor about your feelings rather than bottle them up. Exercise at least three times a week to reduce muscle aches and pains associated with lupus. Your skin is more sensitive to sunlight with lupus, so use sunscreen or sunblock to prevent rashes. Get regular checkups to keep lupus under control and notify the doctor immediately of new or worsening symptoms.
