Lupus got its name from the Latin word “wolf” because some people with lupus will develop a butterfly shaped rash across their nose and cheeks- it was thought that this rash gave them a wolf-like appearance!
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects connective tissues (such as joints and muscles) in your body. The immune system is supposed to distinguish normal body cells from those of invaders: in auto-immune diseases the body thinks normal cells ARE the invaders. This means that the normal immunity and defense systems have gone into over-drive and the body attacks its own cells causing tissue damage.
The cause of lupus is unknown. But 90% of those diagnosed with lupus are women, usually identified as a young adult. Lupus is also most prevalent among people of African and Asian descent.
There are two forms: DLE (discoid lupus erythematosus) and SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus).
DLE is the most common and only affects the skin. Exposed areas such as your hands, face, scalp and ears develop a rash that starts as a red, circular, thickened area that will later scar.
SLE is the more serious form affecting the joints and kidneys. Symptoms will come and go and can include a low fever with possible spikes to a high fever, nausea, a change in bowel patterns, weight loss, fatigue and malaise, skin rashes and muscle and joint pain. Individuals with SLE may also display mental and emotional instability, headaches, irritability and depression. Common complications related to SLE are frequent urinary tract infections, digestive problems, an enlarged spleen, heart and lung problems and kidney damage.
Flair ups for both types are often triggered by exposure to sunlight, so symptoms may be worse in spring and summer months.
There is no cure for Lupus. Treatments depend on the severity, symptoms and complications of the person. The outlook is most promising for those who are identified and treated early. Individuals with only mild cases also respond wEll to natural medicine, but even more severe cases can achieve some relief from symptoms by paying closer attention to their bodies.
If you are diagnosed with lupus, you will need to work closely with your doctor and a rheumatologist to figure out what will work best for you and your health. But, here are some things you should be aware of.
You may be taking anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Steroids may be used in cream form for rashes, or taken internally to help ward off damage to your kidneys.
Follow a high-fiber diet with lots of water.
Watch for foods or substances in your environment that might be triggering your symptoms.
You may need to consider a vitamin supplement to help your body get the nutrients it needs.
Plan for frequent rest periods, and gentle daily exercise.
Try to keep stress to a minimum.
Avoid exposure to sunlight.
Stick with hypoallergenic products.
Take precautions against urinary tract infections.
Avoid oral contraceptives or hormone therapies.
Natural remedies may include: ginseng and astragalus for fatigue, devil’s claw for pain, pine-bark, grape-seed extracts, and turmeric for inflammation, and reishi for inhanced immunity.
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