Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a chronic, potentially debilitating or fatal autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's cells and tissue, resul...
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Back pain is the second most common reason for a visit to the physician. By far the most common causes of low back pain are "mechanical" caused by disc degeneration, muscle or ligament strain. Rarely, acute low back pain is a harbinger of serious medical illness including infection, cancer, and other diseases. Patients often come to see …
I recently discussed how the flu season is just around the corner and thought it be a good idea to follow it up with what we all can do to hopefully avoid it. But I'm sure many would first like to know a bit more about the flu before hearing about the vaccine to prevent it. So first on my list to share is that we realize the true name …
Those who suffer from arthritis understand the daily grind...literally the 'grind' of bone on bone that you deal with everyday. Hip and knee replacements are often the last resort and a big committment on the part of the patient but here is some new data to suggest it is well worth it, even in older patients.
Researchers conducted …
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The technical name for lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is an auto-immune disease in which the immune system cannot distinguish between threats (like viruses and bacteria), and healthy cells and tissue. As a result, the body produces antibodies that inflict cell damage, most commonly targeting joints, skin, kidneys and the nervous system. Lupus symptoms vary, but there are certain commonalities: fatigue, muscle and joint ache, skin rashes (particularly on the bridge of the nose), and ulcers. About nine times as many young women as young men are diagnosed with lupus.
A mix of genes and environmental factors most likely trigger lupus, though this has not been proven, and the specific roles of these factors are not known. Likely environmental factors include ultraviolet light, viruses, and certain drugs. A single gene has not been identified as causing lupus, though scientists suspect a group of genes associated with chromosome 6.
There are three main groups of commonly prescribed medications for lupus: (1) anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, Advil etc., (2) Antimalarial drugs, which are helpful in preventing flares and treating general symptoms (Plaquenil is the most popular in this group), and (3) corticosteroids, which consist of steroid hormones and reduce inflammation. Other kinds of medication, such as immunosuppressants, may be prescribed in more severe cases of lupus.
As the Lupus Foundation of America notes on its Web site, it is important for those coping with lupus to develop and maintain a strong support system: "Participating in a support group can provide emotional help, boost self-esteem and morale, and help develop or improve coping skills."
The DailyStrength lupus support group consists of individuals around the world coping with lupus. Tapping into their experience and chatting about your concerns and options can help relieve isolation and encourage empowerment.
The following resources may be helpful:
Lupus Warriors
Lupus Encouragement...
Teens with Lupus
