Positive Treatments for Lupus

Nearly 2 million Americans suffer from Lupus, an autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues because it cannot tell the difference between foreign substances, called antigens, and the body’s own tissues. Due to this confusion, the body creates antibodies against its own self, which causes inflammation, pain and damage in various parts the body, including the lungs, heart, joints, skin, brain, blood and kidneys. For some it is a mild disease and for others it is severe, even life threatening. It is estimated that more than 16,000 new diagnoses are made each year in the United States and more than 90 percent are women between the ages of 15-45, the childbearing years.

There are four different types of Lupus and within each type there are still no two cases that are exactly alike. The four types are: discoid, systemic, drug-induced and neonatal lupus.

Lupus used to be more fatal than it is today; today it can be treated and with proper treatment, patients can lead somewhat normal lives. Many think lupus has something to do with estrogen and estrogen receptors, though the connections still remains a mystery. Genetics are also at play with the disease and environmental factors are a play as well. Certain medications and even sunlight can trigger the illness.

The disease is most often characterized by achiness, joint pain and stiffness. Parts of the body may be swollen, such as the hands, due to inflammation. Patients may experience other symptoms, such as fever, sores in the mouth and nose, facial rash, swollen glands, chest pain, or simply fatigue. Since no two cases are alike and the symptoms are so varying, diagnose can be quite challenging. The American College of Rheumatology has a certain criteria that must be met to make the diagnosis of lupus. Patients must exhibit four of the eleven criteria, which are usually determined through urinalysis and blood tests.

Treatment for the disease has come a long way. The survival rate has dramatically increased. Some patients can use over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, some use the antimalarial hydroxychloroquine and others use corticosteroids.

Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, getting enough rest, avoiding direct sunlight and exercising on a regular basis can help control symptoms as well.





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