Lupus Erythematosus Symptoms

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can be fatal, but with recent medical advances, fatalities are becoming increasingly rare. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys and other organs. Systemic lupus erythematosus involves chronic inflammation that can affect many parts of the body. SLE (lupus) is an autoimmune disease. This means that there is a problem with a normal body response of the immune system. Normally, the immune system protects the body against harmful substances. Fever appears in 90% of patients with SLE and is usually caused by the inflammation of the disease, not infection. It is low grade, except during an acute lupus. SLE may be mild or severe enough to cause death.

SLE often begins with a rash on nose and cheeks that is shaped like a butterfly and aggravated by exposure to sunlight. This may be accompanied by fatigue and joint pain. SLE symptoms may develop slowly over several months or years, or they may occur suddenly. Symptoms tend to be worse during the winter months, perhaps because prolonged exposure to sunlight during the summer causes a gradual accumulation of factors that trigger symptoms months later. SLE is one of several diseases known as the great imitator because its symptoms vary so much that it often mimics or is mistaken for other diseases. There are about 50,000 people with SLE in the United Kingdom. Women are nine times more likely to be affected than men. SLE often begins in adolescence and 20 years.

Approximately 90% of people who have lupus are young women in their late teens to 30 years. Older men and women may also be affected. SLE or lupus occurs in all regions of the world, but may be more common among blacks and Asians. Treatment depends on which organs are affected and if the lupus is mild or severe. Immunosuppressants may be used to relieve symptoms and control of the disease, while physiotherapy can help relieve joint problems. Sun exposure should be avoided and treated early infections. Autologous bone marrow stem cell transplants are being studied as a possible remedy. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory fever, arthritis and headaches. Antimalarial drugs for pleurisy, mild kidney disease, and inflammation of the tissues surrounding the heart

Tips for Lupus Erythematosus Treatment and Prevention

1. anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used.

2. corticosteroid creams are used to treat skin rashes.

3. Sun exposure should be avoided and treated early infections.

4. Immunosuppressants may be used to relieve symptoms and control the disease.

5. Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is an antimalarial medication proven particularly effective for patients with SLE.