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​What is Lupus?
​More information on Lupus below
Some facts about Lupus
Lupus is an inflammatory disease that is caused by the immune system attacking the body’s own healthy tissues and organs such as the heart, skin, joints, lungs, and kidneys. It can last for years or be lifelong
What causes lupus?
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The exact causes of lupus are unknown. It is believed that it may be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors and sometimes drugs
Signs and symptoms:
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The common signs and symptoms are extreme fatigue, joint pain, rashes, fever, weight loss and many more
Who treats lupus? ​
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Most patients see a rheumatologist and since any part of the body can be affected other specialists, such as nephrologists and dermatologists may be involved
Types of Lupus
Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE)
Cutaneous/Discoid Lupus Erythematous (DLE)
Neonatal Lupus
SLE is the most common type of lupus. It’s what’s usually referred to when the term ‘lupus’ is used. It can affect any part of the body including major organs such as the lungs, kidneys and the heart
DLE is limited to just the skin. It can cause various red scaly rashes and lesions to appear on the face. Sometimes, people with DLE may develop SLE
Neonatal lupus occurs when mothers with lupus or antibodies related to lupus pass them on their newborns. The symptoms don’t have lasting effects and often disappear after a few months
Lupus and COVID
People with lupus are at a higher risk of contracting the coronavirus. And if they do, the symptoms are likely to be serious. Patients need to take careful precautions to make sure they are not exposed to the virus
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Who treats Lupus?Most patients see a rheumatologist and since any part of the body can be affected other specialists, such as nephrologists and dermatologists may be involved.
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Is Lupus infectious?Lupus is neither infectious nor contagious. However, people with lupus can easily catch infections
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Does Lupus affect pregnancy?Pregnancy is considered to be a high risk but most women with lupus can safely become pregnant and have healthy babies
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Does Lupus make you forgetful?People with lupus can experience brain fog. This is when one has difficulty focusing, a poor memory and experiences confusion
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What causes Lupus flare ups?Flares occur when there is an increase in symptom severity. It’s important for people with lupus to identity their triggers to help prevent and minimize the severity of flares
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Can you give any advice on living with Lupus?Follow your treatment plan, consider support groups, be informed and learn all you can about lupus, be sure to get enough sleep and rest, be sun safe, reduce stress and eat well.
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How can I care for a loved one diagnosed with Lupus?Be sure to educate yourself about lupus and accept changes due to lupus and adjust. Be considerate, positive and encouraging
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How many people have Lupus?Lupus affects over 5 million people worldwide of which 90% are women