2011 2
Treatments for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or SLE has no permanent cure. What are available at this time are treatments that focus on relieving the symptoms and protecting the bodily organs from further inflammation and decreasing the levels of autoimmune activities of the body. The treatment levels are unique for every individual. Mildly diagnosed patients will not require medical procedures and may only be given some dosages of anti-inflammatory medicines while those severely identified will have to intake high dosages of corticosteroids which functions as suppressants for the immune system of the body.
Lupus, as an autoimmune disease will cause the tissues of the body to be attacked by its own immune system which supposedly protects the body from infectious diseases caused by bacteria. The antibodies found in the blood which should fight the infections fall traitor by attacking the body’s tissues instead of the bacteria or other infectious agents. This is a complicated disease because of the vulnerability of various parts and organs of the body. The potential effects of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus may be manifested on diseases surfacing on the skin, the heart, lungs, kidneys, and nervous system which are vital organs.
Where Lupus originates is still unknown, at this point everything is assumed to have caused its occurrence, from inherited genes, extreme exposures to the sun, previous illnesses or even the history of medication. Some of its signs and symptoms may include fatigue, mild fever, and loss of appetite, muscle aches, arthritis and photosensitivity. Scarring can also appear. There are people who experience “butterfly rash” which is characterized by a red, flat facial rash found over the bridge of the nose which can scar if not treatments are applied.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Arthritis
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is also associated with arthritis wherein swelling and deformation of the small joints found on hands, wrists, and feet happen. There is pain and stiffness which is similarly experience by those with rheumatoid arthritis. People who have been diagnosed with Lupus must observe more rests. Adequate sleep and exercise must be enforced to reduce feelings of fatigue.
To help ease the pain and manifestations of the disease, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. These drugs help in reducing inflammations and pain in the patient’s muscles, joints, and other tissues. Since there is no definite treatment for this, doctors usually try one drug at a time and evaluate the bodily response. Apparently, there are side effects from drug intakes. Some would experience stomach and abdominal pains or even ulcers thus emphasizing on food intakes prior to medication. When internal organs are already affected, corticosteroids are administered orally, injected or intravenously. Patients may gain weight, be prone to diabetes, cataracts or even death of tissues found in large joints of the body. For medications targeting symptoms of fatigue, and affected skin and joint, hydroxychloroquine is preferred. This prevents the flare-up of the disease and decreases the occurrence of blood clots. A great deal of research and tests still needs to be done for the real treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, for now, proper care for the body and healthy living must be a lifestyle.
You might also like:
No Comments on “Treatments for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus”