Learn More About Lupus
What is Lupus?
With lupus or SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), the body's immune
system becomes hyperactive and instead of just attacking foreign invaders-such
as bacteria and viruses-it targets the body itself. It can affect nearly
every organ, including the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, lungs,
and blood. Lupus is characterized by periods of illness, called flares,
and periods of wellness, or remission.
Who Gets it?
Women are the overwhelming majority of sufferers. It is most commonly
found in women of color-African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native
American-who are in their childbearing years.
What Causes it?
Researchers don't know, but they suspect people might be born with
a genetic propensity for the disease. (Researchers have linked lupus
to a number of different genes.) Environmental and hormonal triggers
also might activate lupus.
| What are the Treatments? |
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- Anti-inflammatory drugs, including some
over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen.
- Corticosteroids such as prednisone, prednisolone,
and cortisone.
Antimalarials.
- Even though there is no known connection
between malaria and lupus, anti-malarial drugs help with joint
pain, skin rashes and ulcers that some people develop inside
their nose and throat.
- Immunosuppressants such as chemotherapy
are reserved for those who have the most severe lupus flares
that threaten to endanger organs.
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