Do you know the types of lupus? Sometimes, a lupus flare-up comes suddenly and without warning. You can see a butterfly rash on the bridge of your nose and swelling, or you may experience headaches, dizziness, fever and pains in various locations. According to the Lupus Foundation, there are certain things you can do to prevent an outbreak.
Always take prescribed medication, do not miss the appointment with a doctor (even if you feel well), avoid drugs sulfonomide (usually used to treat bronchitis or urinary tract infections), reduce sun exposure and use sunscreen, get lots of rest and do not smoke. The good news is that 80-90% of people with this condition can still live a normal life with treatment.
There are five types of lupus: systemic lupus erythematosus, which affects the joints and organs, discoid lupus, which affects the skin, subcutaneous acute lupus erythematosus, characterized by skin lesions induced lupus that develops after a drug reaction and neonatal lupus that affects newborns. Lupus signs include fatigue, fever, weight loss / gain, joint pain / stiffness / swelling, redness on the cheeks of butterfly, skin lesions that worsen with sunlight, mouth sores, fingers and toes turn white or blue in the cold, shortness of breath chest pain, dry eyes, bruising, anxiety, depression and / or memory loss.
The Lupus Foundation says there are no two cases of this condition are exactly alike. The signs may appear gradually or appear suddenly and can be mild or severe. Most people have "pushed" or episodes. To test for lupus, your doctor will ask you some questions, run a standard physical, take samples of urine and blood and perform an electrocardiogram.
Lupus erythematosus (DLE) manifests itself by inflammation, with rashes and scarring on the face, ears and scalp. The lesions may be inflamed, scaling or crusty in appearance, with lighter centers and darker rims. A small percentage of these patients have internal organ failure too, but usually symptoms are primarily related to the skin.
Cortisone ointment or injections can be useful in the treatment of relapses. Drugs like Plaquenil, Aralen, Imiquimod, Quinacrine, Accutane or Soriatane are sometimes prescribed, but should be carefully monitored side effects.
The treatment of this condition can be an ordeal emotionally. Sometimes depression encounter suffering, anxiety, fatigue and high levels of stress. Learn all you can about lupus erythematosus to help you cope. Read about new treatments and research is done can give you a sense of hope.
Be open to your family and friends about how you feel and let them know how they can help. Meditating, writing in a journal or simply take time for yourself through rituals or routines can make life more enjoyable as well. In people suffering from this condition is empowering to connect with others who live the same life events. You can check the Foundation Lupus Foundation or Arthritis websites for the nearest chapter.
Posted on April 2, 2010.
