How can lupus be treated?
Patient: I found out 3 months ago that I have lupus. I don t know that much about lupus, and I don t really know what to expect. I Found Out 3 Months Ago That I Have Lupus. I Don t Really Know That Much About It Or What To Expect. My Name Is Donna. Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.Lupus is a long-term (chronic) autoimmune disorder which can affect any part of the body like skin, bone or organs, etc. I will explain a little about what is an autoimmune disorder. Here immune system is overactive.In our body, we have our immune system which fights against any infection in the body exposed anytime. But in lupus affected patient the immune system gets disturbed where the body's immune system does not recognize the foreign body (infectious agent) and healthy tissue. So, it indirectly damages the healthy tissues of the body by autoantibodies causing inflammation, pain, and damage to organs.It is non-communicable, not even by sexual contact. Each year to 16,000 cases reported each year. In the US till now 1.5 million people are affected with lupus. People with age ranging from 15 to 44 years are more likely to develop the disease. Mostly, women develop lupus.Risk factors are excessive exposure to sunlight, UV light, exposure to Epstein-Barr virus infection.It is true that there is no specific cure to it, but the disease progression can be controlled with relieve to symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, rash, and fever, etc.Usually, doctor prescribes patients corticosteroids and immunosuppressant with lifestyle changes. If left untreated or poorly treated develops complications like anemia and blood clotting disorders. Also affecting lungs, kidneys, heart, and lastly brain and nervous system.So do not worry people with lupus live their full life, but with care and the advice followed properly with regular medications. So, follow all the advice your treating doctor has advised with medications.Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.Regards,Dr. Anuradha Das