What is LUPUS?

WHAT IS LUPUS         

Written by Ifeoluwa Daniel and Adejuwon Esther Oluwatomisin

Lupus is a disease of the immune system; it is an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is a condition in which your body’s own immune system is responsible for the inflammation and breakdown of its own cells.Normally, your immune system protects your body from infection. This means that the immune system fights infections by producing antibodies that bind to the microbes.

However, when a person has Lupus, their immune system attacks their own tissues. People with Lupus produce abnormal antibodies in their blood that target tissues within their own body rather than foreign infectious agents.

These antibodies are referred to as autoantibodies.
This leads to tissue damage and illness.

CAUSES OF LUPUS.

The precise reason for the abnormal autoimmune that causes lupus is not known . However;

1)Inherited genes
2)Viruses
3)Ultraviolet light
4)Certain medications ; may play some role.

Lupus is not caused by an infectious microorganism and is not contagious from one person to another.

Genetic factors increase the tendency of developing autoimmune diseases  such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune thyroid.

SYMPTOMS OF LUPUS.

Symptoms can vary, depending on the individual.

General symptoms associated with lupus include;
1)Low-grade fever.
2)Loss of appetite.
3)Nausea.

4)Muscle aches.

5)Joint pains.
6)Fatigue.

More specific symptoms include;
7)Skin changes.
8)Ulcers of the mouth and nose.
9)Photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight)
10)Decreased circulation to the fingers and toes with cold exposure.

IS LUPUS CURABLE?

Currently, there’s no cure for lupus

Doctors and scientists continue their research to better understand lupus and develop new treatments for the condition.

However, many different types of treatments can help a lupus patient manage the symptoms.

Treatment for lupus focuses on several factors:

1)Treating lupus symptoms when you have them.

2)Preventing lupus flares from occurring.

3)Reducing the amount of damage that occurs to the joints and organs.

4)Following a healthcare professional’s recommended treatment regimen is important in helping you to manage your symptoms and to live a fulfilling life.

WHO CAN HAVE LUPUS?

Lupus affects about 10 times as many women as men.

Most times, it develops in people between the age of 15 and 44.

Though Lupus is more prevalent among women, it can also affect men and children, as well as people of all ages.

Having a family history of lupus means that you’re at a greater risk of developing the condition.

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