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(Also called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), subacute cutaneous lupus, discoid lupus, drug-induced lupus, and neonatal lupus)
Lupus is an autoimmune disease brought about by either genetic and/or environmental factors, possibly even hormonal factors as well, in which the body begins to attack cells of the body or various organs. Lupus can affect almost every organ in the body, such as the joints, skin, blood vessels, heart, and brain.
There are many types of lupus, of which systemic lupus erythematosus is the most common. Lupus is not selective in choosing its victims, and anyone can be diagnosed with the disease. Although women are most at risk for lupus, it is more common in Asian, Native American, African American and Hispanic women. Most victims are affected between ages 15 and 45, but it can also occur later in life.
Lupus has many symptoms, and they can vary from very mild to life threatening. These symptoms also vary from patient to patient, as well as from occurrence to occurrence in the same patient, making it very difficult for a doctor to predict the progression of the disease or its symptoms. Some of the more common symptoms are:
* Extreme fatigue
* Muscle pain
* Joint pain or swelling
* Fever of no known cause
* Red rashes, often on the face (the “butterfly rash”)
* Kidney problems
* Hair loss
* Depression
* Sensitivity to the sun
* Pale or purple fingers or toes from cold or stress (Raynaud's phenomenon)
* Chest pain
* Dizziness
* Seizures
Diagnosis of lupus is very difficult as it is similar to many other diseases. It can takes months or years to diagnose, and providing the doctor with a very accurate health history is very instrumental in setting up an individualized plan for treatment. A very complete and accurate medical history, a physical, and laboratory tests are all used to diagnose lupus. Sometimes even an MRI or biopsy will be necessary to diagnose the disease.
Treating lupus consists of treating the symptoms, as there is no known cure for this disease. Once it has been diagnosed, a doctor will work with you to prescribe a plan that is based on your age, gender, symptoms, health and lifestyle. This plan can change over time as the disease progresses, but the plan’s goal is to manage and treat flares, as well as minimize complications. Drug treatments consist of:
* NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
* Antimalarials
* Corticosteroid hormones with supplemental Vitamin D to avoid bone loss
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Immunosuppressives
Whether a person is genetically predisposed or not, environmental factors can bring the lupus symptoms to full exposure. These environmental triggers include sunlight (UVA and UVB rays), cigarette smoke, and some preservatives in food. There is no known cure for lupus, but lifestyle changes can help control it. If you have lupus or a predisposition to lupus, it is very important to know which environmental triggers exacerbate your condition.
If you are concerned that the above information may apply to you, a family member or a friend we suggest you conduct some additional research and seek the advice, guidance and support of a experienced health care professional. In many cases it will be wise to seek the advice of a TEAM of health care professionals that can support you through the entire process of diagnoses and successful treatment.
In conclusion, the more you know and understand about potential illnesses and their triggers affecting you and your family the more effective you and your health team will be in diagnosing and treating these challenges.
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Disclaimer
The information presented in this site is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition. It is not intended to substitute for the advice, treatment and/or diagnosis of a qualified licensed health professional. Coaches of the Lifestyle Center may not make any medical diagnoses, claims and/or substitute for a health care provider.
The state of knowledge regarding the treatment of patients potentially exposed to hazardous substances in the environment is constantly evolving and is often uncertain. In this educational endeavor we have made a diligent effort to ensure the accuracy and currency of the information presented, but make no claim that it comprehensively addresses all possible situations. This site is intended as an educational resource for individuals and families seeking information that may help them solve difficult health issues. It is not, however, a substitute for the professional judgment of a licensed health professional. The information must be interpreted in light of specific data regarding the patient and in conjunction with other sources of authority.
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