Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus, is a complex autoimmune disorder known for its difficulty to diagnose. There's no singular diagnostic test for lupus as its symptoms often mirror those of other medical conditions. Therefore, multiple tests are performed to eliminate other potential diagnoses.
The Mystery Behind the Cause of Lupus
The immune system is our body's defense mechanism, designed to fight off foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. However, in autoimmune diseases like lupus, the immune cells inexplicably begin attacking the body's own cells and tissues.
The triggers that cause the immune system to malfunction in this manner remain unclear. Researchers speculate that a combination of environmental factors and genetics are generally responsible. The consensus is that a genetically predisposed individual encounters an external event that triggers the autoimmune response.
Potential triggers might include sunlight exposure, infections, and certain medications, including some blood pressure and anti-seizure drugs, as well as antibiotics.
Lupus presents differently in every individual. Symptoms can emerge suddenly or develop over time. They can range from mild to severe and may be temporary or permanent. The disease is marked by ‘flares', periods of heightened activity, and ‘remission', periods of minimal symptoms.
Lupus: Who is at Risk?
Lupus can occur at any age, but it's predominantly seen in individuals between 15 and 45 years old. Women are disproportionately affected, accounting for nine out of ten cases.
The disease is more prevalent among Black women than any other race. Severity of lupus varies greatly, with cases ranging from mild to life-threatening, depending on the extent of body damage.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Lupus
Lupus symptoms vary greatly from person to person, making it unlikely for an individual to experience all possible symptoms. A common sign is the development of an unexplained low-grade fever, indicative of body-wide inflammation, a hallmark of lupus.
Frequent joint and muscle pain are also common, while symptoms such as itching, nausea, and leg swelling may hint at kidney damage.
Despite the challenges, most lupus patients can lead a normal or near-normal lifespan, contingent on the severity of the disease and the involvement of vital organs.
Complications Associated with Lupus
Lupus can lead to serious kidney complications, with kidney failure being a leading cause of death among lupus patients. The disease can also affect the blood and blood vessels, leading to anemia, increased bleeding, and clotting risks.
Inflammation of the chest cavity lining, leading to pleurisy, is another potential complication, making breathing painful. Lupus may also cause bleeding into the lungs and pneumonia.
Furthermore, lupus can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks, particularly if inflammation has weakened the heart muscle, arteries, or heart membrane.
