Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most common form of Lupus. This is an autoimmune disease that can cause widespread inflammation in the organs and tissues. SLE can affect the joints, the skin, the brain, the lungs, the kidneys, and blood vessels. This condition can display symptoms that range from mild to life-threatening.
The common symptoms of SLE are:
The causes of SLE are not well understood. It is currently believed that a combination of genetic factors and environmental factors, combined with hormonal changes, are the reason that people get SLE. Some people seem to be triggered by exposure to sunlight, infections, or medications as well.
The risk factors for SLE are:
This condition can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms of SLE can mimic the symptoms of other health issues. A full CBC might be done to test the blood, and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate test can check to see the rate at which red blood cells sink to the bottom of a tube in an hour. Kidney and liver health assessments might be necessary, and sometimes a urine sample might show increased levels of protein or red blood cells in the body.
If there are complications involving other organs, a chest X-ray, an echocardiogram, or biopsies of specific organs might be necessary to help rule out other health issues and confirm a diagnosis of SLE.
Treatment for this condition can vary from patient to patient. Patients will usually use a combination of NSAIDs to treat pain and corticosteroids to suppress the immune response. Some patients also benefit from being placed on antimalarial drugs. Immunosuppressants and biologics can also help to control the immune response in many patients.
Patients will typically experience flares on and off throughout the course of their lives. These can be linked with times of stress, specific food, or activities, or they might seem to be entirely random. Patient care for SLE is usually targeted at reducing the frequency of flares as well as treating the ongoing symptoms they are experiencing.
Prevention of SLE is not usually possible. This condition’s causes are poorly understood, and it is not known why some people suddenly begin to experience symptoms. You can make sure to protect yourself from the sun and be sure to get plenty of sleep. Eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise can also help to improve your overall health, which might prevent SLE.