Lupus

The exact cause of lupus is not known. Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system is confused and attacks healthy parts of the self. Researchers believe that if a person inherits just the right combination of genes (genetic predisposition) and is exposed to certain triggers, either extreme or over a period of time, lupus will develop. Lupus is not directly hereditary like sickle cell disease. Lupus is not contagious. You can't catch in from someone or give it to someone. The Epstein-Barr virus (the one that causes mononucleosis) is often cited as a trigger. Other triggers include stress, sunlight, cigarette smoke, and certain medications. The medications are the one given for tuberculosis and some high blood pressure medications. If the lupus is drug induced, the lupus goes away once the offending drug is withdrawn.

The average age of death in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can vary significantly, but studies suggest that it is often around 10 to 20 years earlier than the general population. The median age of death for SLE patients is typically in the late 40s to early 50s. Factors such as disease severity, organ involvement, and access to healthcare can influence survival rates and life expectancy in those with the condition. Improved management and treatment have contributed to better outcomes over recent years.

Lupus, specifically systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), can affect the liver through autoimmune mechanisms, leading to inflammation and damage. The condition can cause liver dysfunction, manifesting as elevated liver enzymes, and may lead to conditions like autoimmune hepatitis or drug-induced liver injury from medications used to treat lupus. Additionally, lupus can increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease. Regular monitoring of liver function is important for managing lupus patients.

Lupus itself is not directly related to low sodium levels, but certain medications used to manage lupus or complications from the disease can lead to hyponatremia (low sodium). Additionally, some individuals with lupus may experience kidney issues that affect sodium balance. It's important for patients with lupus to monitor their sodium levels and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.

Women with lupus should consult their healthcare provider before taking soy isoflavones. While some studies suggest potential benefits, soy can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with autoimmune conditions. It’s essential to consider individual health circumstances and potential risks. Always prioritize guidance from a medical professional.

Lupus itself does not have a specific odor. However, some individuals with lupus may experience skin rashes or infections that could produce an odor. Additionally, certain medications or conditions related to lupus might lead to changes in body odor. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for any concerns regarding symptoms.

Self-inducing a lupus flare is not advisable, as it can lead to serious health complications. However, certain factors may trigger flares in susceptible individuals, such as excessive sun exposure, stress, infections, and certain medications. It's crucial to manage lifestyle factors and work with a healthcare provider to minimize risks and maintain overall health. If you suspect a flare, consult your doctor for appropriate guidance and management strategies.

There is not just one test for Lupus. The Dx involves lab work, pt. history, and exam. Some of the tests are expensive and must unfortunately be repeated. Your best resource for tests and explanations of Lupus is the Lupus Foundation website. www.lupus.org

I'm no doctor, but I am an HS patient and yes, I think they are related. I don't understand why HS hasn't been classified as an auto-immune disease officially.

Lupus is a remitting flaring autoimmune disease that affects each patient differently. When lupus is flaring, inflammation markers like sed rate, ferratin, and c reactive protein are likewise high.

An positive ANA (antinuclear antibody) means that you make antibodies that attack the circulating debris of the nucleii of your own cells that have died. A titer of 320 means that your blood had to be diluted320 times before they got a sample that had no antinuclear antibody. Typically the numbers are 40, 80, 160, 320, 640, and so on. Lupus presents a speckled pattern, not a nucleolar pattern.

10 million Americans have a positive ANA. Only 1.5 million have lupus. Many people have a positive ANA and no active disease of any kind. Unless you are having some kind of symptoms, don't be overly concerned.

After researching i have found out that iron controls the haemoglobin in your body, which is the substance that carries oxygen around in your blood.

Iron is only useful if kept at a healthy uptake though, as too little will slow the blood, and make it hard to concentrate and make you irritable, and too much can be hazardous to your health and poison you.

I found this after searching just for iron in the body and I found an article on it. Hope that helps :D

John.

Approximately 1 in 170.

Cost to do what?

Both systemic lupus and Crohn's disease are autoimmune. Autoimmune diseases frequently occur together. There are some one hundred autoimmune diseases. Learn more at www.aarda.org.