Lupus is a chronic disease that can cause inflammation and pain in any part of your body. It is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body’s immune system, which usually fights infections, attacks healthy tissue instead.
Lupus is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms can be similar to other illnesses. The most recognizable sign of lupus is a facial rash that looks like a butterfly spreading its wings across both cheeks. This occurs in many, but not all, cases of lupus.
Some people may be born with a higher risk of developing lupus, which can be triggered by infections, certain drugs, or exposure to sunlight. Lupus cannot be cured, but treatments may help control symptoms.
What Does Lupus Do to the Body?
Lupus is a chronic disease that can cause inflammation and pain in any part of your body. It can affect any body part, including the skin, joints, and organs.
Lupus occurs when something goes wrong with the immune system, and it begins to attack healthy tissue. This results in inflammation, pain, and damage to different areas of the body.
Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms can be similar to other illnesses. The most recognizable sign of lupus is a facial rash that looks like a butterfly spreading its wings across both cheeks. This occurs in many, but not all, cases of lupus.
What Are the Symptoms of Lupus?
Lupus can cause a wide range of symptoms, varying in severity from person to person. Some people only have mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms that can be life-threatening.
The most common symptoms of lupus include:
- joint pain and swelling
- muscle pain
- fatigue
- fever
- rashes
- headaches
- hair loss
- chest pain
- dry eyes
- dry mouth
- numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
Lupus can also cause other serious health problems, such as:
- kidney disease
- heart disease
- stroke
- pulmonary hypertension
- blood disorders
- neurological problems
- cancer
Lupus can be a severe disease, but with proper treatment, most people with lupus can live a normal life.
What Causes Lupus?
So far, what researchers know is that lupus occurs when the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue. But its exact cause is unknown. However, researchers believe that genetic and environmental factors cause lupus. This does not mean lupus is contagious; it cannot be passed from person to person.
Who Is at Risk for Developing Lupus?
Lupus can develop in anyone, but women aged 15-44 and people from certain racial or ethnic groups are more likely to get the disease. People with a family member with lupus or another autoimmune disease are also at higher risk. Lupus is most common in women, with 9 out of ten people with the disease being female.
How Is Lupus Treated?
There is no cure for lupus. However, treatment can help control the symptoms of lupus and prevent complications. Treatment for lupus may include:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Corticosteroids
- Immunosuppressive drugs
- Antimalarial drugs
- Plasmapheresis
- Biologic agents
Lupus can be a severe disease, but with proper treatment, most people with lupus can live a normal life.
Conclusion
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect any part of the body. While there is no cure for lupus, it is possible to manage the symptoms and flares with medication and lifestyle changes. With the proper treatment, people with lupus can live normal, healthy lives.
At the Center for Arthritis and Osteoporosis, Dr. Adenwalla and the team adopt the finest treatment procedures and diagnostic modalities to manage disease states. We understand that living with arthritis and autoimmune diseases can be an extremely stressful experience. We work to support our patients in their journey from pain to recovery with compassion, care, and employment employing high-end medical technologies like radiographs, MRIs, and ultrasound. If you need medical services in New Jersey, we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help!
