Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Glutathione An Introduction To The Damaging Nature Of Lupus

Your immune system normally protects you from infections. Lupus is a condition in which your immune system attacks your own body. In effect, it becomes unable to discern between foreign entities and your cells. The disease causes inflammation which can spread throughout your body and affect your organs, resulting in a number of debilitating symptoms. It is most prevalent in women (females represent over 90% of cases) and nearly 2 million people are afflicted by it in the U.S.





There are four types of lupus the most common type is known as systemic lupus erythematosus. Below, we'll provide an overview of the illness, including potential causes and known symptoms. We'll also describe a few common methods of treatment.





What Causes The Condition?





Definite causes of the illness have eluded doctors and researchers. It is widely believed within the medical community that the condition is triggered as a result of both internal and external factors. That is, patients are genetically predisposed to developing the disease, yet environmental influences (for example, particular medications or viruses) are required in order to activate it.





While doctors remain uncertain about what causes the illness, they have identified factors that increase a patient's risk of developing it. For example, existing case data establishes a clear link between gender and lupus. Furthermore, the condition is more prevalent in Asians, Latinos, and African Americans than Caucasians.





How The Illness Manifests





As noted, the inflammation triggered by the disorder's onset impacts several of your body's organs. The most common symptoms are arthritis, joints that ache, and persistent fevers and fatigue. As the inflammation spreads, the kidneys become vulnerable, bouts of anxiety or depression can become common, and patients can even suffer from short periods of memory loss.





The condition can also outwardly manifest as a red rash on the skin (typically, on the cheeks and nose) as well as hair loss. In extreme cases, patients may experience seizures and a marked shortness of breath.





Common Methods Of Treatment





Doctors will usually prescribe one of three types of medications to treat the disease's symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can reduce their severity. Antimalarial drugs have proven effective for reducing the inflammation triggered by the disorder. Corticosteroids can also limit inflammation, but can lead to serious side effects such as osteoporosis and diabetes. When they are prescribed, the doses are typically small.





Cases in which the condition becomes life-threatening require a more aggressive approach to treatment. Your doctor might suggest the oral application of high-dose corticosteroids (despite the potential side effects) and immunosuppressive medications to limit the damage caused by your immune system.





If you notice symptoms that are consistent with lupus, make an appointment with your doctor. Not only will he or she be able to prescribe the appropriate medications, but your doctor can also suggest lifestyle changes that will prevent symptom flare-ups. Lupus is a serious disease that deserves professional medical advice.

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