Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)
Topic Overview
What is systemic lupus erythematosus, or lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's natural defense system (Reference immune system Opens New Window) attacks healthy tissues instead of attacking only things like bacteria and viruses. This causes inflammation.
Although some people with lupus have only mild symptoms, the disease is lifelong and can become severe. But most people can control their symptoms and prevent severe damage to their organs. They do this by seeing their doctors often for checkups, getting enough rest and exercise, and taking medicines.
This topic focuses on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common and most serious type of lupus. But there are other types of lupus, such as discoid or cutaneous lupus, drug-induced systemic lupus, and neonatal lupus.
What causes lupus?
The exact cause of lupus is not known. Experts believe that some people are born with certain Reference genes Opens New Window that affect how the immune system works. These people are more likely to get lupus. Then a number of other things can trigger lupus attacks. These include viral infections, including the virus that causes mononucleosis, and sunlight.
Although these things can trigger lupus, they may affect one person but not another person.
What are the symptoms?
Lupus symptoms vary widely, and they come and go. The times when symptoms get worse are called relapses, or flares. The times when symptoms are under control are called remissions.
Common symptoms include feeling very tired and having
joint pain or swelling (Reference arthritis Opens New Window), a fever, and a
Reference skin rash Opens New Window Reference 
Opens New Window. The rash often happens after you have been in the sun. You may have mouth sores
and hair loss. Over time, some people with lupus have problems with
the heart, lungs, kidneys, blood cells, or
Reference nervous system Opens New Window.
How is lupus diagnosed?
There is no single test for lupus. Because lupus affects different people in different ways, it can be hard to diagnose.
Your doctor will check for lupus by examining you, asking you questions about your symptoms and past health, and doing some urine and blood tests.
How is it treated?
Treatment for lupus may include:
- Reference Corticosteroid Opens New Window cream for rashes.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Reference NSAIDs Opens New Window) for mild joint or muscle pain and fever.
- Antimalarial medicines to treat fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes.
- Corticosteroid pills if other medicines aren't controlling your symptoms.
The doctor may also recommend other medicines that slow down the immune system (immunosuppressants).
How can you manage lupus?
One of the goals of controlling mild to moderate lupus symptoms is to prevent flares. You can:
- Rest to reduce stress.
- Avoid the sun. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when you are outside.
- Exercise regularly to prevent fatigue and joint stiffness.
- Stop smoking.
- Watch your symptoms. If they seem to be getting worse, take steps to control them. For example, if your fatigue, pain, or rash gets worse, it may be a sign of a flare.
With good self-care, most people who have lupus can keep doing their regular daily activities.
It is important to learn about lupus so that you can understand how it might affect your life and how you can best cope with it. Also, help your family and friends understand your limitations and needs when your symptoms flare. Build a support system of family, friends, and health professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
|
Learning about lupus: | |
|
Being diagnosed: | |
|
Getting treatment: | |
|
Living with lupus: |
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
