The Lupus Disease
The chronic autoimmune illness lupus, formerly known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is caused by the immune system attacking healthy tissues throughout the body. This can result in widespread inflammation and tissue damage. The condition can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs. In Ghana, as in many other countries, lupus presents unique challenges in terms of diagnosis, management, and awareness. The symptoms of lupus can vary greatly from person to person, can be intermittent (flares and remissions), and can range from mild to life-threatening. Here is an in-depth analysis of lupus symptoms in both women and men:
WHAT ARE SOME SYMPTOMS OF LUPUS SYMPTOMS?
1. Fatigue: Persistent, often severe tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest. Can significantly affect daily activities and quality of life. Likely due to ongoing inflammation and the body's constant immune activity, this is an early sign of lupus in female especially.
2. Joint Pain and Swelling: Arthralgia (pain without inflammation) or arthritis (pain with inflammation) commonly affecting the hands, wrists, and knees. Can lead to reduced mobility and difficulty performing tasks. Immune system attacks the synovium (lining of the joints), causing inflammation and pain.
3. Skin Rashes: Various types of rashes, the most distinctive being the “butterfly” or malar rash across the cheeks and nose. Can cause discomfort and affect appearance, potentially leading to emotional distress. Immune complexes deposit in the skin, leading to localized inflammation.
4. Fever: Low-grade fevers that come and go without an obvious infection. Can contribute to feelings of malaise and fatigue.
5. Photosensitivity: Sensitivity to sunlight, leading to rashes or a worsening of symptoms upon sun exposure. It may require lifestyle changes to avoid sun exposure. UV light triggers an immune response in the skin.
6. Hair Loss: Some early lupus symptoms cause hair thinning or patchy hair loss, often related to the severity of the disease. Affects appearance and can be psychologically distressing. Inflammation around hair follicles leads to hair falling out.
7. Mouth and Nose Sores: Painless ulcers inside the mouth or nose. Can cause discomfort and affect eating and speaking. Immune system attacks mucosal linings.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF LUPUS?
The exact cause of lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, or SLE) is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, hormonal, and possibly other factors. Here’s an in-depth look at these potential causes:
1. Genetic Factors
a. Family History: Lupus tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. If a close family member has lupus, the likelihood of developing the disease increases.
b. Specific Genes: Certain genes are more common in people with lupus. These include genes involved in immune system regulation, such as those coding for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins, which play a crucial role in the immune response.
2. Environmental Triggers
a. Infections: Certain infections can trigger lupus in susceptible individuals. Viruses like Epstein-Barr virus have been linked to the onset of lupus.
b. Sunlight: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can trigger lupus skin lesions and may also cause internal disease flares.
c. Medications: Some drugs can induce lupus-like symptoms. This is called drug-induced lupus, which usually resolves once the medication is discontinued.
d. Chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as silica dust, has been linked to an increased risk of lupus
3. Hormonal Factors
a. Sex Hormones: Lupus is more common in women, particularly those of childbearing age. This suggests that estrogen and other female hormones might play a role in the disease.
WHAT ARE SOME TREATMENTS FOR LUPUS?
Treating lupus involves managing its symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Because lupus can affect various parts of the body, treatment is often personalized and may require a combination of medications and lifestyle adjustments. It is best to book an appointment with a doctor before proceeding with purchasing any over-the-counter medicine.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Antimalarial Drugs, Corticosteroids, Immunosuppressants. Yet still, depending on the symptoms and organs affected, other medications like anticoagulants or blood pressure drugs may be prescribed.
Lifestyle adjustment is key to treatment and management of Lupus. Keen attention will have to be paid to having adequate rest, stress management, sun protection, regular exercise, healthy diet, monitoring and regular check-ups.
