A Glance on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
According to Lupus Foundation of America, there are more than five million people who have diagnosed with Lupus. This article gives an overview of the basics of SLE or Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.
What is SLE?
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a type of autoimmune disease in which the immune system sees its own cells as foreign substances and attacks them. SLE is a very rare, but serious disease. SLE is the most common and most serious type of Lupus (other lupus types: discoid, drug-induced, neonatal and subacute cutaneous). It is a lifelong disease that can affect other body organs including kidneys, lungs, heart and nervous system when becomes severe.
What is the Cause of SLE?
The cause of SLE is idiopathic (unknown). Experts are still puzzled as to how certain genes infiltrate the body’s own system. However, there are many factors identified by experts that may predispose and trigger the condition.
What are the Symptoms of SLE?
Lupus symptoms vary and depend on the organ/s affected. Common symptoms of SLE include joint pain, fatigue, fever and skin rash (the Butterfly rash as its pathognomonic sign). SLE patients are known for “flares” or “relapses” when symptoms worsen.
How is SLE Diagnosed?
The dilemma of SLE is that you’ll never know you are infected of it until it gets worse. Diagnosing SLE involves history taking, blood tests and other laboratory work ups.
What is the Management of SLE?
Management on SLE focuses on stress reduction, sun exposure prevention, regular exercise and proper hygiene.
What is the Treatment of SLE?
The treatment regimen of Lupus-infected individuals concerns on managing symptoms and preventing further damage to other body organs. Symptoms are relieved by corticosteroids, NSAIDS and anti-malarial medicines. Corticosteroids are only prescribed if other drugs seem to be not working, with doses kept lowered as they can cause severe side effects.
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