Lupus Awareness

The following is a list that can cause lupus to be triggered:

People who are susceptible to lupus may experience an onset of the disease due to one or more triggers. A family history of lupus or other immune system illnesses, such as arthritis, MS, or rheumatism, can increase the likelihood of developing lupus. 

Lupus is more prevalent worldwide than leukemia, muscular dystrophy, and multiple sclerosis, and certain races like Afro-Caribbeans, Asians, and Far Eastern races are more prone to having the disease.

Additionally, various environmental factors may also contribute to the development of the illness in some patients.

What are the key symptoms associated with lupus?

There are many manifestations of lupus, listed below are some of the more common. Lupus is a disease which can present itself in many different facets. Also take note that it is rare to have two people to have exactly the same symptoms.

Early symptoms of lupus:

How is lupus treated?

There is no cure for lupus but treatments are available to alleviate pain and improve symptoms.
 
Treatment will depend on symptoms and needs.

The following are the goals for treatment:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Over the counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen. These help reduce mild pain and swelling in joints and muscles.

Corticosteroids

May help to decrease swelling, tenderness, and pain caused by lupus. These can also help to calm the immune system when taken in high doses. Corticosteroids, sometimes just called “steroids” are available in different forms, including pills, injections, or a cream to be applied to the skin, and lupus symptoms usually respond quickly to their effects. After successful treatment, the dosage will be gradually decreased until it is no longer needed. It's important to note that the longer a person uses steroids, the more difficult it is to decrease the dosage, and stopping the medication suddenly can be harmful to the body.

Antimalarial drugs

Medications which are commonly used to prevent or treat malaria, can also be effective in treating lupus symptoms such as joint pain, skin rashes, fatigue, and lung inflammation. Two common antimalarial drugs are hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) and chloroquine phosphate (Aralen). Research has shown that taking antimalarial medication can prevent lupus flare-ups and may also improve the lifespan of people with lupus.

BlyS-specific inhibitors

This medication can restrict the quantity of abnormal B cells (cells that produce antibodies in the immune system) found in people with lupus. Belimumab is a commonly used BLyS-specific inhibitor that helps manage lupus symptoms by obstructing the activity of a particular protein in the body that plays a crucial role in the immune response.

Immunosuppressive agents/Chemotherapy

In severe cases of lupus, when the disease has a significant impact on vital organs and other treatment methods are ineffective, these medications may be utilized. However, these drugs can have severe side effects since they reduce the body's ability to fight infections.

Other medicines

To treat health issues or illnesses associated with lupus, such as high blood pressure or osteoporosis, additional medications may be required. Due to the increased risk of blood clots, which can lead to severe conditions like a heart attack or stroke, many individuals with lupus are prescribed anticoagulants (also known as "blood thinners") like warfarin or heparin to prevent excessive clotting. It is not safe to take warfarin during pregnancy.