Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Symptoms and Treatment of SLE
A normal functioning immune system will attack anything that enters into your system that is unfamiliar. Your immune system will take the necessary acts to ensure that your body is able to fight off the unfamiliar attack. For example, when fighting a cold infection, your immune system will release an excess of Killer B Cells to battle that cold.
In autoimmune diseases, your immune system gets a little confused and begins to attack familiar objects in your body. Your immune system senses an attack and thus takes action. In the case of SLE, your body releases an excess of antibodies which can cause pain and inflammation in your organs and joints.
SLE and Your Body: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus can affect several different parts of your body. Your skin can become inflamed and irritated. Malar rash, or butterfly rash is focused around the facial area including the nose and the cheeks. Discoid rash is a more prominent raised rash on the skin, usually in red scaly patches. Some with SLE experience mouth ulcers and other skin irritations as well.
Joint pain, especially in the hands and wrists is a common complaint of those suffering from SLE. Others have problems with their blood cell count and iron deficiency levels.
Heart and lung problems such as chest pain, atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and shrinking lung syndrome are also common in those suffering from lupus. Furthermore, about 10 percent of all SLE patients experience seizures while suffering from lupus.
Common SLE Symptoms: Apart from the above symptoms, many people suffering from SLE also complain of fever, fatigue and dizziness. Of course, these are extremely common in many diseases and thus it can be extremely difficult to diagnose lupus.
You will undergo several different tests including blood and urine tests when determining if you have systematic lupus erythematosus.
Treating Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Unfortunately, Lupus is a chronic disease meaning that there is no cure for it. However, there are a variety of different treatments out there to reduce your symptoms and prevent further flare ups.
For skin irritations, there are several topical creams and medications that can help with the pain and inflammation. Many doctors prescribe antiflammatory drugs, painkillers and anti-malarial drugs to help with joint pain and other problems.
In severe SLE, medications such as immunosuppressant’s and disease-modifying antiheumatic drugs may be prescribed.
You can also aid in your own treatment simply by making a few lifestyle changes. Stay out of the sun and cover up with sunscreen and protective clothing. Maintain a healthy weight with regular exercise and plenty of wholesome foods.
When it comes to treating systemic lupus erythematosus, everyone is different and thus it is always best to consult your doctor to come up with a treatment and prevention plan suited to you.
