SO YOU THINK YOU HAVE LUPUS

Lupus is a disease of the immune system. A healthy immune system helps the body fight disease. A diseased immune system actually fights the body it is designed to protect. Such is the case with Lupus. Lupus affects far more women than men.

There are several forms of Lupus. SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) is the most common form of Lupus. Systemic means that this form of Lupus attacks the major systems of the body including skin joints, kidneys, lungs, blood vessels, heart, nervous system and brain. A common symptom of SLE is the presence of a characteristic "butterfly" rash across the nose and cheeks. Other symptoms include rashes on other parts of the skin, discolored fingers/toes, sores in the mouth, swollen and painful joints, weight loss, fever, headaches and abdominal pain. Some of the more severe symptoms of Lupus can include blood clots, memory problems, depression, difficulty thinking, hallucinations, paranoia or other mental health issues, seizures, and strokes.

DLE (Discoid lupus erythematosus) is another form of lupus. DLE affects just the skin; the body's other organs are not affected. Visible symptoms of DLE include a raised red rash on the scalp, face and other parts of the body. Sores in the mouth may also be present. Drug induced lupus and neonatal lupus are much less common.

There is no cure for Lupus but the symptoms can be successfully treated with certain prescription medications. If you believe you may have Lupus see your medical doctor. Together you will discover if you do indeed have Lupus and what the best form of treatment will be.