Lupus – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Monday, May 07, 2018 by Michelle Simmons

Lupus, which is short for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic disease that causes inflammation in different parts of the body. Its severity ranges from mild to severe. There are two main types of lupus: discoid and systemic lupus. Discoid lupus only affects the skin, while systemic lupus affects the skin and joints as well as the internal organs.

Since lupus is an autoimmune disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. The cause of lupus is unknown. However, there are some identified possible triggers of lupus, such as infections, medicines, or sunlight. Hormonal changes may also play a role in lupus, which is why it is much more common in women.

Known side effects of lupus

The known side effects of lupus include fatigue, pain or swelling in joints, skin rashes, fever, headache, confusion, chest pain, unusual hair loss, pale or purple fingers or toes form cold or stress, swelling in a leg or around the eyes, and swollen glands.

Body systems harmed by lupus

The body systems harmed by lupus include the excretory, respiratory, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. Over time, lupus can cause damage or complications in systems through the body. These may include blood clots, inflammation of blood vessels, inflammation of the heart, a heart attack, a stroke, memory changes, behavioral changes, seizures, inflammation of the lungs, kidney inflammation, and kidney failure.

List of foods or nutrients that prevent lupus

There is no information on what foods or nutrients prevent lupus. However, there are some foods that should be avoided when you have lupus. These include red meat, processed foods, trans fat, garlic, alfalfa, alcohol, and salt.

Treatments, management plans for lupus

Generally, treatments for lupus may include anti-inflammatory medicines, hydroxychloroquine for fatigue and skin and joint problems, and other medicines that may help relieve its symptoms. For managing lupus, you should eat a healthy, balanced diet, exercise regularly, get plenty of rest, try relaxation techniques, wear a hat in the sun, stop smoking, and avoid direct sunlight.

Where to learn more

Summary

Lupus is a chronic disease that causes inflammation in different parts of the body.

Lupus causes fatigue, pain or swelling in joints, skin rashes, fever, headache, confusion, chest pain, unusual hair loss, pale or purple fingers or toes form cold or stress, swelling in a leg or around the eyes, and swollen glands.

Lupus harms the excretory, respiratory, nervous, and cardiovascular systems.

Lupus can be treated with healthy lifestyle changes and medicines.

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