Lupus
This chronic inflammatory disease occurs when your body's immune system attacks your own organs and tissues. Lupus is more common in women, blacks, Hispanics and Asians and often is diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40. There are four varieties of lupus, and no two cases are alike. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, weight loss or weight gain, joint pain, a butterfly-shaped rash over the cheeks and bridge of the nose, mouth sores, skin lesions, chest pains, anxiety and easy bruising. Symptoms tend to flare up for a while, then ebb or disappear before another flare-up occurs. People with lupus are vulnerable to infection because the disease affects the immune system. They also often experience kidney damage. Treatment depends on individual symptoms.
Recently Answered
- Q How do other illnesses affect systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?
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Certain prescription drugs can trigger the onset of systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, symptoms. Drugs used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, tuberculosis, and psychoses can all cause SLE symptoms to appear. Those who have been infected... Full Answer
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- Q Does SLE affect children differently than adults?
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Systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, usually does not affect children. Symptoms typically develop between the ages of 15 and 40. Pregnant women with SLE are more likely to miscarry. Babies born to mothers with SLE may suffer from neonatal lupus, which... Full Answer
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- Q What activities should someone with SLE avoid?
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If you have systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Ultraviolent (UV) rays can cause SLE symptoms to flare. Wear UV protection every time you go outside, even if you are only going for a moment. Long sleeves, a... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?
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The symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) often vary depending on the person. Symptoms may begin gradually or all at once. Initial symptoms often include fever and feelings of general malaise, sometimes accompanied by severe headaches, epileptic... Full Answer
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- Q Should I talk to my doctor about my SLE symptoms?
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You should talk to your doctor if you think you have symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE. With treatment, the disease can often be well managed. Without treatment, however, you can experience life-threatening complications, including kidney... Full Answer
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- Q How common is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?
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As many as 1.5 million Americans may suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE. Between 1.8 and 7.6 people per 100,000 develop SLE each year. SLE is most common in women between the ages of 15 to 40. Blacks, Hispanics, and Asians seem most... Full Answer
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- Q What lifestyle changes should I make if I have SLE?
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If you suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, you may need more rest than most people. Get plenty of sleep at night and take naps throughout the day as often as necessary. Protect yourself from exposure to UV rays, even if you are only going... Full Answer
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- Q How long does systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) last?
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Systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, is a chronic disease. It will probably last for the rest of your life, and there is no cure. With proper treatment, symptoms can be managed and you can continue to enjoy an active lifestyle. Full Answer
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- Q How does systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affect pregnancy?
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Pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, are more likely than others to suffer miscarriage or stillbirth. Babies born to women with SLE may suffer neonatal lupus as a result of autoantibodies they acquired from their mothers in the womb.... Full Answer
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- Q Does systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) run in families?
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Doctors believe that systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, does have a genetic component. If someone in your family suffers from SLE, you may be at higher risk for developing it yourself. However, doctors believe environmental factors play a strong role... Full Answer
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