Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes joint discomfort, rashes, and exhaustion. Although there is no cure, early therapy can help to alleviate symptoms.
Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus, is difficult to diagnose since it can look like other illnesses.
Inflammation of several regions of the body, including the lungs, heart, liver, joints, and kidneys, is one of the symptoms.
A blood test will almost always be ordered by your doctor. The presence of high levels of one type of antibody, along with usual symptoms, indicates the presence of lupus.
If your doctor suspects that your heart, kidneys, or other organs are harmed, you may be referred for X-rays and scans.
You’ll be encouraged to have frequent checks and testing once you’ve been diagnosed with lupus, such as blood tests to check for anaemia and urine tests to check for kidney abnormalities.
The following medications are commonly used to treat lupus:
For fatigue, skin, and joint problems, anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and hydroxychloroquine are used.
For kidney inflammation and rashes, steroid pills, injections, and lotions are used.
Rituximab and belimumab are two drugs that are sometimes used to treat severe lupus. These lower the number of antibodies in the blood by working on the immune system.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects the immune system. This indicates that your immune system (natural defence system) assaults healthy components of your body.
It’s not contagious, so don’t worry.
The causes of lupus are still a mystery. The following are some possible causes:
Lupus affects more women than men, and it is more common in black and Asian women.