Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
(SLE) is a chronic disease of the connective tissue, which involves the
entire body. The disease affects individuals differently and may
cause mild symptoms in one person and be debilitating in another.
The symptoms will also appear and disappear without any apparent reason.
It is not clear what causes
SLE to develop, but research indicates there may be a number of risk factors
that may increase your risk of developing systemic lupus.
Genetic link
Hormones (more women have SLE
than men)
Environmental factors
Viruses
Infections
Immune system problems
Stress
The physical mechanism
of SLE is that the body makes antibodies that attack its own body cells
and specifically the cell nucleus. As the nucleus is attacked, the
cell dies, and gradually, tissue begins to become weak and less able to
function effectively.
The most common symptoms
of SLE include:
A butterfly rash on the cheeks
and nose
Joint pain all over the body
Inflammation around the heart
Kidney problems
Fever and generalized fatigue
Seizures
Depression
Memory loss
Hair loss
Anemia causing fatigue
Low white cell count making
the person susceptible to infection
Low platelet count causing the
person to bruise easily
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Difficulty swallowing
Treatment is individualized
for each person, but focuses on treating symptoms as they appear. Consequently,
people with SLE are monitored closely to ensure they are receiving the
appropriate treatment at all times. The treatment options often include:
Medications to suppress the
inflammation and immune response. Aspirin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or
NSAID’s (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) will be used for milder
symptoms. Topical steroid creams will help with the rash. Corticosteroids
are necessary for severe symptoms.
Rest to decrease demands on
the body organs.
Nutrition- to increase strength
and nourishment to body tissues.
Avoiding the sun- to prevent
irritation to the skin.
Education regarding all the
medications and their side effects and how to avoid those types of activities
can cause flare ups of the symptoms.
Emotional support to deal with
the chronicity of the disease and the body changes experienced.
