The Real On Lupus

Lupus, also called Systemic Lupus Erythematousus (SLE), is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body, including skin, joints, and internal organs. In lupus, a defect occurs in the immune system, the vital part of the body that fights off viruses, bacteria, and other potential diseases. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, 1.5 to 2 million Americans have some form of lupus. There are about 40 cases per 100,000 people among Northern Europeans and 200 cases per 100,000 people among African Americans. Although the disease affects both males and females, women are diagnosed nine times more often than men, usually between the ages of 15 and 45.
Although doctors are not sure exactly what causes lupus, they are certain it is not contagious. Most doctors believe lupus results from both genetic and environmental stimuli, as there are no known genes that directly cause the illness. By only having an inherited trait for the disease, it may only appear after coming into contact with some environmental triggers. These environmental triggers may include smoking, sunlight, extreme stress, medications, antibiotics, infections, and chemical exposure. Physicians believe that hormones such as estrogen regulate the progression of the disease in women because symptoms tend to flare before menstrual periods or during pregnancy.
Being that no two cases are exactly alike, there is a wide range of symptoms known to affect many parts of the body. Sometimes symptoms develop slowly or appear suddenly. They also range from mild, severe, temporary or permanent. Symptoms for lupus include, but are not limited to: achy joints, swelling of the hands and feet, fatigue, high fever, dry eyes, easy bruising, anemia, seizures, ulcers, hair loss, and abnormal blood clotting problems. Lupus can also lead to complications in the kidneys, central nervous system, blood and vessels, lungs, and the heart.
Lupus is a very serious health condition, and as with any form of an autoimmune disease, it requires a great deal of research, medical attention with a health care professional as well as counseling due to the life altering nature of the illness. As signs and symptoms vary from person to person, there is no single diagnostic test that can confirm lupus. To be classified as having SLE, a person must have at least four symptoms at any time since the onset of the disease. In addition to this, doctors can do a variety of blood test such as a complete blood count (CBC), a kidney and liver assessment, a syphilis test, and a urinalysis.
There is currently no cure for lupus. However, early diagnosis and proper medical treatment can significantly help control the disease and its symptoms. Treating lupus effectively consists of minimizing symptoms, reducing inflammation and pain, helping maintain normal functions, and preventing serious complications. So, by being aware of your body and regularly getting a physical examination by your primary physicians, you can quickly reduce your chances of having permanent or life threatening lupus.