07 October 2024

Lupus

Lupus is a type of autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system or antibodies attack healthy tissues and cells. Lupus causes damage and inflammation to the body's cells.

Causes of Lupus:

1. Environment
   Environmental factors that can increase the risk of lupus include exposure to toxins such as mercury, cigarette smoke, and sodium silica gel.

2. Hormones
   According to research, women are more susceptible to lupus than men because they produce and use more estrogen, also known as the "immuno-enhancing" hormone.

3. Genetics
   Another factor that can increase the risk of lupus is genetics or family history. It is not uncommon for individuals with a family history of lupus to test positive for autoimmune DNA tests.

Types of Lupus:

1. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
   SLE is the most common form of lupus. It can affect several organs, including the kidneys, heart, lungs, nervous system, skin, and joints. Symptoms experienced by SLE patients include skin rashes, joint inflammation, swelling in the feet and around the eyes, and extreme fatigue.

2. Cutaneous Lupus
   This type of lupus causes lesions or rashes on the skin, primarily on areas that are frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, ears, neck, and legs.

3. Neonatal Lupus
   This rare form of lupus occurs when a mother passes certain autoimmune antibodies (autoantibodies) to her baby through the placenta.

4. Drug-Induced Lupus
   This type of lupus is also known as Drug-Induced Lupus Erythematosus (DILE). It is caused by long-term use of certain medications. Some drugs that may cause DILE include antihypertensive drugs, antiarrhythmic drugs, anticonvulsants, and antimicrobials.

Symptoms of Lupus:

1. Joint Pain
   The first common symptom experienced by lupus patients is joint pain, often affecting the hands and feet. This pain may move from one joint to another.

2. Skin Rashes
   Another common symptom is the appearance of rashes on the cheeks and the bridge of the nose. These rashes often spread in a butterfly-shaped pattern, hence the term "butterfly rash."

3. Fatigue
   Lupus patients often feel fatigued even after performing simple daily activities, such as work routines or household chores. This fatigue does not improve, even with adequate rest.

Lupus Treatment:
It is important to note that lupus is an incurable disease. However, doctors will prescribe medications to reduce symptoms and prevent more severe complications.

Lupus Complications
Lupus is a serious condition, and if not treated properly, it can lead to complications such as:

• Kidney damage, including kidney failure.

• Brain and central nervous system disorders, leading to headaches, vision problems, seizures, and even stroke.

• Blood and blood vessel issues, causing anemia, inflammation in blood vessels, and an increased risk of blood clots.

• Lung problems, such as pneumonia.

• Increased risk of heart attacks and other heart diseases.

Reviewed by: dr. Innosensius Ibnu Ishwara, M.K.K.

Source: Siloam Hospital Health Article

Photo: freepik.com