Is lupus a serious illness?

Is lupus a serious illness?

Lupus can cause serious kidney damage, and kidney failure is one of the leading causes of death among people with lupus. Brain and central nervous system. If your brain is affected by lupus, you may experience headaches, dizziness, behavior changes, vision problems, and even strokes or seizures.

Is lupus a real disease?

Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that affects many different parts of the body. An autoimmune disease occurs when the body’s immune system attacks itself because it cannot tell the difference between healthy tissue and foreign invaders, such as bacteria and viruses.

Is lupus an autoimmune condition?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is the most common type of lupus. SLE is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organs. It can affect the joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels.

What are the early signs and symptoms of lupus?

There is no one first sign or symptom of lupus. The early signs and symptoms of lupus are generally the same as the symptoms of lupus, including extreme fatigue, joint pain, or a butterfly rash. However, the early signs vary widely from person to person.

What are the possible side effects of lupus treatment?

Potential side effects may include an increased risk of infection, liver damage, decreased fertility and an increased risk of cancer. Biologics. A different type of medication, belimumab (Benlysta) administered intravenously, also reduces lupus symptoms in some people. Side effects include nausea, diarrhea and infections.

What are some complementary and alternative treatments for lupus?

Complementary and alternative treatments for lupus include: 1 Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)… 2 Fish oil. Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids that may be beneficial for people with lupus… 3 Acupuncture. This therapy uses tiny needles inserted just under the skin…

What are the treatment options for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?

SLE treatment consists primarily of immunosuppressive drugs that inhibit activity of the immune system. Hydroxychloroquine and corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) are often used to treat SLE.