What is Lupus
Lupus is one of the most widely diagnosed autoimmune diseases in the country, as its symptoms are sporadic and vary greatly from patient to patient.
Lupus affects the skin, joints, heart, kidneys, and a variety of other internal organs. If you are currently not experiencing a flare when you are seeking a diagnosis for your condition, you may appear perfectly fine to a healthcare provider. Conversely, lupus can also be mistaken for other illnesses due to the various body systems the ill effects.
Common symptoms of Lupus Include:
- Butterfly rash
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Headaches
- Chest pain
- Skin lesions
- Changes in skin color on fingers and toes when exposed to cold temperatures or stressful situations
- Skin lesions may appear worse in the sunlight while there is no cure for ulcerative colitis, symptoms can be managed and remission can be achieved.
How is Lupus Treated?
As lupus cannot be cured, most treatments for lupus focus on reducing flare-ups and improving quality of life. Often your healthcare provider will encourage lifestyles and changes in conjunction with medications and other treatments. For those diagnosed with Lupus, staying out of the sun and eating a healthy diet can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Medications used to treat Lupus usually include antimalarials, immunosuppressants, NSAIDs, and steroids as they help reduce inflammation and decrease the body’s immune response.
However, if you are not responsive to traditional oral medication medications, your doctor may recommend a biological infusion for your lupus.
