What Is Lupus? Know The Causes, 10 Symptoms And Best Treatments!

Lupus was once much more life-threatening than it is today. Now, most people with lupus can live 10 years or more beyond their early diagnosis. But what is lupus? Lupus, medically known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting various body parts, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain. In lupus, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs, leading to inflammation and damage. 

While the exact cause of lupus is not fully understood, a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors is believed to contribute to its development. Women of childbearing age are at a higher risk of developing lupus, although it can affect people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities. Lupus symptoms vary widely and may come and go over time, making diagnosing challenging. Common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, fever, and sensitivity to sunlight. 

According to recent Lupus Foundation reports, Lupus is not fatal in most cases, and 80–90% of patients can expect to live an extended life span with treatments and follow-up care. However, in some severe cases, lupus causes organ damage and life-threatening complications. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing disease progression. Thus, this blog explores the best lupus treatments available to manage its symptoms effectively. So, keep reading! 

Table Of Contents 

1. What Is Lupus Disease? And Is Lupus A Serious Disease? 

2. What Is The Main Cause Of Lupus? And Is Lupus Life Threatening? 

3. 10 Lupus Symptoms You Need To Recognise  

4. Major Lupus Symptoms: Know Early Signs Of Lupus In Females 

5. Is Lupus Treatable? Best Lupus Treatment Options  

6. Dietitian’s Recommendation 

7. The Final Say 

8. FAQs 

9. References 

What Is Lupus? And Is Lupus A Serious Disease? 

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10 Lupus Symptoms You Need To Recognise

Lupus causes symptoms throughout the body, depending on which organ or system is affected. Everyone has a different combination of symptoms and severity. Lupus symptoms usually come and go in waves called flares. During a relapse, symptoms may be severe enough to affect daily life. There may be periods of remission when symptoms are mild or absent. Symptoms usually appear slowly. You may notice one or two signs of lupus first and more symptoms later. 

The most common yet alarming lupus symptoms include:   

1. Pain Throughout The Body 

Lupus can cause widespread pain, known as lupus arthralgia or myalgia. This pain can affect the joints, muscles, and even organs, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility for many patients. The severity of pain can vary from mild to debilitating, and it may come and go in flare-ups. Managing pain is an essential aspect of lupus treatment, often requiring a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. 

2. Butterfly-Shaped Rash 

One of the hallmark symptoms of lupus is a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, often called a malar rash. This rash can vary in severity and appearance, ranging from mild redness to raised and scaly patches. It typically worsens with sun exposure and may come and go with lupus flares. While not all lupus patients develop this rash, its presence can aid in diagnosis and prompt treatment initiation. 

3. Intermittent Fever And Fatigue 

Many lupus patients experience intermittent fever and persistent fatigue as symptoms. Fever can be a sign of inflammation or infection, both common in lupus. Fatigue, on the other hand, can be debilitating and may significantly impact daily functioning, also causing chronic fatigue syndrome. Managing these symptoms often involves addressing underlying inflammation, immune system dysfunction, and lifestyle modifications to conserve energy. 

4. Swollen Sweat Glands 

Swollen sweat glands, or lymphadenopathy, can occur in lupus patients, particularly during flares or increased disease activity. This swelling results from the immune system's response to inflammation and can occur in various body parts, including the neck, underarms, and groin. Treatment typically focuses on managing the underlying inflammation and may involve medications to suppress the immune system. 

5. Worsen Skin Lesions 

Lupus can cause a variety of skin lesions, including discoid lupus lesions, which are characterised by raised, scaly patches on the skin. These lesions can worsen during lupus flares or with sun exposure, leading to increased discomfort and potential scarring. Treatment often involves topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and promote healing, along with sun protection measures to minimise further damage. 

6. Shortness Of Breath 

Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, can occur in lupus patients due to inflammation of the lungs or involvement of the heart and blood vessels. This symptom can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by chest pain, coughing, or wheezing. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to determine the underlying cause of shortness of breath and initiate appropriate treatment, which may include medications and lifestyle modifications. 

7. Sudden Memory Loss 

Lupus can affect the central nervous system, leading to cognitive dysfunction and memory problems in some patients. Sudden memory loss or difficulty concentrating can be alarming symptoms that warrant medical attention. These cognitive symptoms may fluctuate over time and can significantly impact daily functioning. Treatment may involve medications to manage inflammation and cognitive therapy to improve memory and cognitive function. 

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8. Dry Eye Syndrome 

Dry eye syndrome is a common complication of lupus, resulting from inflammation of the tear glands or damage to the eye's surface. This can cause discomfort, redness, and blurred vision. Managing dry eye syndrome often involves lubricating eye drops, medications to reduce inflammation, and lifestyle modifications such as avoiding dry environments and using humidifiers. 

9. Common Mental Problems 

Lupus can have a significant impact on mental health, leading to symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and mood swings. Dealing with the challenges of chronic illness, along with the physical symptoms of lupus, can contribute to mental health issues for many patients. Treatment may involve therapy, support groups, and medications to address underlying mental health conditions. 

10. Sudden Convulsions Or Attacks 

Seizures or sudden convulsions can occur in some lupus patients, particularly those with central nervous system involvement. These episodes can be frightening and may require immediate medical attention. Treatment typically involves medications to control seizures, along with addressing underlying inflammation and immune system dysfunction. Close monitoring and adjustment of medications may be necessary to manage seizures effectively. 

Also Read: How To Deal With The Chronic Signs Of Depression? 

Major Lupus Symptoms: Know Early Signs Of Lupus In Females  

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects more women than men. Anyone can get lupus, but women are most at risk. Between the ages of 20 and 30, lupus is 15 times more likely to affect women than men. This difference is smaller in children (three times more often) and older adults (eight times more often), but still exists. Lupus most commonly occurs in women between the ages of 15 and 45 or when they are likely to have children. 

After lupus, your risk of other health problems increases. If you have lupus, you are at higher risk for other health problems that commonly occur in women, such as heart disease and osteoporosis. Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because it has a wide range of symptoms that can mimic other diseases. Early signs in women include fatigue, hair loss, joint pain, and swelling. However, diagnosis can be difficult because symptoms may be similar to other disorders. Thus, early diagnosis is essential to prevent complications. 

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Is Lupus Treatable? Best Lupus Treatment Options  

Your doctor may suggest lupus treatments to help manage your symptoms. The goal is to minimise organ damage and the impact of lupus on your daily life. Most people with lupus need a combination of medications to prevent flare-ups and reduce the severity of symptoms. You may need: