Systemic Lupus erythematosus, commonly known as SLE, is a group of inherited immune disorder, characterized by redness and swelling in the joints, skin, lungs, kidneys and heart. The most common areas affected are the joints, the lungs, kidneys and heart. This condition can result from a variety of causes, including genetics, a poor immune system, or from an infection.
However, it is most common in children under the age of 20 years old
It's estimated that millions of people have at least one case of SLE. Of those people, over seventy percent of them will have symptoms. Some children will develop a mild case of SLE, while others may develop a more serious case.
Symptoms of SLE vary depending on the location of the disease. If you or a member of your family suffers from SLE, it's important to remember that although symptoms may appear to be similar to other illnesses, they are very different.
One of the most common symptoms of systemic Lupus erythematosus is joint pain. This joint pain may occur because of inflammation of the joints, but it can also be caused by an infection in the joints. Joint pain can occur anywhere on the body, including the hands, feet, legs, elbows, wrists and neck.
Another common symptom of SLE is unexplained weight loss, or anorexia, which may be severe. Some children have been reported to have lost up to fifty pounds in a matter of weeks, although this weight loss can sometimes go back on again after a short period of time. This weight loss and weight gain occur when your body fails to absorb nutrients properly and this can lead to deficiency.
Because systemic Lupus erythematosus is a chronic disease, it can affect the kidneys and lungs, which will cause problems with urination. Other symptoms include fever and fatigue, low energy, weight loss, dizziness, night sweats, vomiting, constipation, fever, and abdominal pain in the upper chest, difficulty breathing and heart palpitations.
There are a number of treatments available for these symptoms. Many doctors prescribe medication to help control the inflammation, as well as to improve the function of the liver. A diet should also be high in vegetables and antioxidants, to help repair the liver and the kidney.
Although many patients report that there is no cure for this condition, it is treatable. SLE can be managed and controlled
Your doctor may recommend the use of glucocorticoids, steroids or a combination of medications, in conjunction with a healthy, balanced diet, and exercise.
With the disease progression, there may be problems with the lungs, and increased risk for infections. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to repair the kidneys, but some medications, such as steroids may be needed to help keep the lungs from filling with fluid. There may also be the need to have surgery to repair the joints and the heart. If the disease advances, a treatment plan may need to be implemented to prevent further progression of the disease.
Lupus has several symptoms, each of which need to be evaluated by your doctor to determine whether or not you are at risk for a Lupus flare up. that could lead to SLE. It is important to note that even if you do not suffer from Lupus, if you have any of the above mentioned symptoms, you may still be susceptible to having an attack. SLE can be triggered by a number of factors, which include environmental factors, such as allergies, stress and/or certain medications.
It is also important to know that even if you do not have Lupus and never had an attack before, you should still be evaluated for the symptoms. Lupus affects both women and men. It is very common for pregnant women to develop SLE, although it does not appear until later on in life.
In most cases, the only way to tell if you have Lupus is by getting an evaluation by a physician. The reason for the evaluation may vary according to each individual case. However, most physicians will try to rule out any serious health problems, which may point toward SLE.
Lupus can be treated, and many people have found successful results in treating it. If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of Lupus, do your best to find the right course of treatment.