Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease which causes a person’s immune system to attack different parts of the body. Lupus can affect many different tissues such as skin and joints, as well as one’s internal organs, and is a chronic disease in which the signs and symptoms can last anywhere from weeks to years. While some people might experience milder symptoms that can be treated with medication, others might experience much more serious symptoms which can be life threatening. Lupus can flare, and then go into remission and then return again, often cycling through these flares and remissions.
It is estimated that over 1.5 million Americans have Lupus, and over 5 million worldwide. While it is most common in women of childbearing age, anyone can be affected by this disease. Black women are especially vulnerable to Lupus and are 2-3 time more likely to develop this disease then any other race.
There are 3 different types of Lupus
1. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: commonly known as SLE is the most widely known form of Lupus. SLE is the most serious form of Lupus and it can effect many of the internal organs as well as ones skin, joints and tendons.
2. Curaneous Lupus: this form of Lupus cases a rash around the face, neck scalp and ears. Curaneious Lupas comes in two different forms. Discoid Lupus Erythematosus – which can cause scarring in it’s most serious form is rare, and Cuaneous Lupus Erythematosus which is much more mild and does not cause scaring or affect any other body organs.
3. Drug Induced Lupus is brought on by a reaction to certain medicines such as anti-seizure or acne medicines. This form of the disease will usually go away once you stop taking the medication.
Lupus
Even through it is a chronic disease, it is not contagious and is not a cancer and not related to HIV or Aids. Lupus is actually the exact opposite of HIV in that the immune system is overactive, not under active as in HIV. The treatment of Lupus has come a long way in the last few years due to earlier diagnosis and more effective medications.
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