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According to the Lupus Foundation of America, more than 1.5 million people in the United States have lupus. Around 70 percent have systemic lupus erythematosus. Systemic lupus erythematosus affects the whole body and can attack virtually any part of it, including skin, major organs, hair, muscles, joints, and the digestive system.
Most people with lupus receive a diagnosis between the ages of 15 and 44. Only around 15 percent of people experience symptoms of lupus before the age of 18. Demographic and other factors can affect the severity and progression of the condition. Lupus is most prevalent among women of childbearing age, and it is “two to three times more prevalent among women of color,” according to the Lupus Foundation of America.
Research from 2014 found that women in minority groups develop lupus younger, have more severe symptoms, and are more likely to die from lupus than others.Lupus may cause symptoms that are subtle at first but get progressively worse. The symptoms may also appear suddenly or gradually. Many people with lupus do not receive a diagnosis straight away because it can mimic other conditions, including fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and various others that affect the same organ systems.
Virtually any symptom of illness or inflammation can signal lupus. However, some of the symptoms most closely associated with lupus include: a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, skin changes and sun sensitivity, an unexplained fever, joint pain and chronic muscle aches or pain, hair loss, fingers that turn lighter when cold, anemia, swelling in the hands and feet, chest pain when taking a deep breath, chronic fatigue, sores in the mouth or nose and abnormal blood clotting.
Over time, lupus can lead to severe complications. Such complications may include: organ failure, infections and other autoimmune issues, chronic pain and fatigue, breathing difficulties due to inflammation in the lungs and congenital heart block in babies
Lupus is a chronic condition, currently is no cure, but there are some treatments that can help a person manage their symptoms and prevent serious complications. The right treatment varies from person to person, and a person’s treatment needs may change with time. Sometimes, a medication that once worked well stops working or begins to cause severe side effects.
The following medications may help treat lupus:
Immunosuppressant drugs: These drugs suppress activity in the immune system and reduce its ability to attack the body. They can be effective but may increase a person’s risk of developing serious infections.
Pain relief medications: Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, may help with chronic pain.
Corticosteroids: Steroids can reduce swelling and pain. OTC steroid creams may help with skin symptoms. A doctor can also prescribe steroid pills or shots to help with systemic symptoms.
Anti-malaria drugs: Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine phosphate may help with lung inflammation, joint pain, and rashes.
BLyS-specific inhibitors: These drugs prevent people from developing abnormal B cells, which are immune system cells that create antibodies.
Medications for symptoms: A healthcare professional may prescribe other medications based on a person’s symptoms. For example, a person might need to take osteoporosis or high blood pressure drugs. Taking blood thinners can also reduce the risk of a blood clot.
Scientists are researching other strategies for treating lupus. Clinical trials offer hope to some people with the condition, so it may be worth asking a doctor whether any trials are taking place locally.
Some people with lupus find relief from alternative remedies, such as acupuncture and special diets. Clinical research has not yet found solid evidence to suggest that these treatments work. However, trying them in conjunction with other treatments is harmless.