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Last updated: March 27, 2022, 14:49 GMT

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Lupus the disease

About Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease, meaning it occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common form of lupus, can affect multiple organs and systems in the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly referred to as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body's immune system, which is supposed to defend against harmful substances like viruses and bacteria, mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Lupus can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells.

The exact cause of lupus is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

What is Lupus?

What is Lupus Disease

Lupus disease, often referred to as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune condition. In autoimmune diseases like lupus, the immune system, which is designed to protect the body from foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, becomes overactive and attacks healthy tissues and organs.

In lupus, this immune system dysfunction can lead to inflammation and damage in various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells. Symptoms of lupus can vary widely among individuals and may come and go over time.

What you need to do

How to protect yourself?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent lupus, you can take steps to potentially reduce your risk or minimize the severity of symptoms if you already have lupus. Here are some tips for protecting yourself from
Lupus disease

Sun Protection

Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure can trigger lupus flares and worsen symptoms.

Healthy Lifestyle

Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables.

Manage Stress

Stress can exacerbate lupus symptoms. Practice stress-reduction techniques.

Limit Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact immune function and exacerbate lupus symptoms.

Stay Hydrated

Adequate hydration is important for overall health and can help reduce the risk of complications.

Avoid Triggers

Identify and avoid potential triggers that may worsen lupus symptoms.

Medication Adherence

If you have lupus, take your prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider.

Regular Medical Check-ups

Regular medical check-ups can help monitor your health and detect any potential complications

How it affects

How is it transmitted?

Lupus is not a contagious disease and cannot be transmitted from person to person like a virus or bacteria. Instead, lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means it occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues and organs.

Genetics

There is evidence to suggest that genetics plays a role in predisposing individuals to lupus. While lupus itself is not directly inherited, certain genes may increase the risk of developing the disease. However, having these genetic risk factors does not guarantee that a person will develop lupus.

Environmental Triggers

Environmental factors, such as infections, sunlight exposure, certain medications, hormonal changes, and exposure to environmental toxins, may trigger or exacerbate lupus in individuals who are genetically predisposed to the disease. These triggers can activate the immune system and lead to inflammation and tissue damage.

Hormonal Factors

Hormonal changes, particularly in women, may influence the development and course of lupus. The majority of individuals diagnosed with lupus are women of childbearing age, suggesting a potential role for hormones in the disease. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, may affect the immune system and contribute to lupus flares.

Symptoms of Lupus

What are the typical symptoms?

High fever

Fever is key symptom, experts say. Don't fixate on number, but know it's really not fever until your temperature reaches at least 39°C.

Cough

Coughing is another key symptom, but it's not just any cough, said Schaffner. It should be a dry cough that you feel in your chest.

Sore Throat

You feel hot to touch on your chest or back It is a common sign and also may appear in 2-10 days if you affected.

Headache

Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets Lupus becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

See more Symptoms

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Meet our Experts

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But just because you're washing your hands often, doesn't mean that you're washing them well.

Sheldon Lee Cooper

Rehabilitation therapist

Email: sheldoncooper@thecov.net

Skype ID: thecovnet.cooper

+61 (8) 8234 3555

Kelly Stark

Epidemiological expert

Email: kellystark@thecov.net

Skype ID: thecovnet.stark

+61 (8) 8234 3555

Deborah W. Burton

Senior nurse

Email: deborahburton@cthecov.net

Skype ID: thecovnet.burton

+61 (8) 8234 3555

Have questions? Find answers!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lupus?
What causes lupus?
Who gets lupus?
What are the symptoms of lupus?
Is lupus contagious?
How is lupus diagnosed?
Is there a cure for lupus?
What is the prognosis for lupus?
Can lupus be prevented?
Where can I find support and resources for lupus?

What is the Gift Lupus Foundation?
What does the Gift Lupus Foundation do?
How can I get involved with the Gift Lupus Foundation?
Does the Gift Lupus Foundation provide financial assistance?
How can I access educational resources about lupus through the Gift Lupus Foundation?
Is the Gift Lupus Foundation affiliated with any other organizations?
How can I stay updated on the Gift Lupus Foundation's activities and initiatives?

What is Lupus

Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues and organs. It can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells.

What causes Lupus

The exact cause of lupus is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Factors such as genetics, infections, sunlight exposure, certain medications, hormonal changes, and stress may contribute to the development or exacerbation of lupus.

Who gets Lupus

Lupus can affect people of all ages, races, and ethnicities, but it is most commonly diagnosed in women of childbearing age (15 to 44). Women are diagnosed with lupus much more often than men, with a ratio of about 9 to 1. Lupus also tends to be more common in certain populations, such as African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, Asians, and Native Americans.

What are the symptoms of Lupus

Symptoms of lupus can vary widely among individuals and may include fatigue, joint pain and swelling, skin rashes, fever, chest pain, hair loss, mouth sores, sensitivity to sunlight, Raynaud's phenomenon, kidney problems, neurological symptoms, and hematological symptoms.

Is Lupus Contagious?

No, lupus is not a contagious disease. It is an autoimmune disease and cannot be transmitted from person to person like a virus or bacteria.

How is lupus diagnosed?

Diagnosing lupus can be challenging because its symptoms often mimic those of other diseases. Healthcare providers typically use a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests (such as antinuclear antibody test and anti-double-stranded DNA test), and imaging tests to diagnose lupus.

Is Lupus Contagious?

Currently, there is no cure for lupus. However, treatment aims to manage symptoms, prevent flares, and minimize organ damage. Treatment may include medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologics. Lifestyle modifications and self-care strategies are also important in managing lupus.

What is the prognosis for lupus?

Lupus prognosis varies depending on factors such as the severity of symptoms, organs affected, and response to treatment. With proper management, many people with lupus can lead relatively normal lives. However, lupus can sometimes be life-threatening, particularly if it affects vital organs such as the kidneys or brain.

Can lupus be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent lupus, but you can take steps to potentially reduce your risk or minimize the severity of symptoms. Strategies include sun protection, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and adhering to prescribed medications and treatments.

Where can I find support and resources for lupus?

There are many organizations and support groups dedicated to providing information, support, and resources for individuals with lupus and their families. Gift Lupus Foundation, The Lupus Foundation of America, Lupus Research Alliance, and Lupus UK are examples of organizations that offer valuable resources, educational materials, support groups, and advocacy efforts for people affected by lupus. Additionally, healthcare providers and local community organizations may offer support services and programs for individuals with lupus.

What is the Gift Lupus Foundation?

The Gift Lupus Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals affected by lupus, raising awareness about the disease, and funding research to improve diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately find a cure for lupus.

What does the Gift Lupus Foundation do?

The Gift Lupus Foundation provides various services and support for individuals with lupus and their families, including educational resources, support groups, advocacy efforts, and financial assistance programs. The foundation also funds research initiatives aimed at advancing our understanding of lupus and developing better treatments.

How can I get involved with the Gift Lupus Foundation?

There are several ways to get involved with the Gift Lupus Foundation, including making donations, volunteering your time and skills, participating in fundraising events, spreading awareness about lupus, and advocating for lupus research and support initiatives. You can visit the foundation's website or contact them directly to learn more about how you can contribute.

Does the Gift Lupus Foundation provide financial assistance?

Yes, the Gift Lupus Foundation may provide financial assistance to individuals with lupus who are experiencing financial hardship due to medical expenses, treatment costs, or other related expenses. Eligibility criteria and application processes may vary, so it's best to contact the foundation directly for more information.

How can I access educational resources about lupus through the Gift Lupus Foundation?

The Gift Lupus Foundation offers a range of educational resources about lupus, including informational materials, fact sheets, online webinars, and educational events. These resources cover various aspects of lupus, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, coping strategies, and lifestyle management tips. You can access these resources through the foundation's website or by contacting them directly.

Is the Gift Lupus Foundation affiliated with any other organizations?

The Gift Lupus Foundation may collaborate with other organizations, healthcare providers, research institutions, and advocacy groups to further its mission and goals. These collaborations may involve joint initiatives, partnerships, or participation in shared events and activities aimed at raising awareness about lupus and supporting individuals affected by the disease.

How can I stay updated on the Gift Lupus Foundation's activities and initiatives?

You can stay updated on the Gift Lupus Foundation's activities, events, and initiatives by visiting their website, subscribing to their newsletter or mailing list, following them on social media platforms, and participating in their events and campaigns. These channels often provide regular updates, news, and announcements about the foundation's work and impact.