BEST Lupus Treatment Near You
What is Lupus
Lupus disease is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system begins to attack the body which results in widespread inflammation. Lupus can damage many parts of the body, including:- The skin
- Joints
- Lungs and Kidneys
- Circulating Blood Cells
- The Brain
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Signs & Symptoms of Lupus
Lupus can present as a wide array of symptoms, varying greatly from one individual to another. Lupus symptoms can be mild to severe and may come and go, often in flares. It’s important to note that not every individual with lupus will experience all of these symptoms. Some may experience only a few, while others might face a broader spectrum of symptoms. You may be wondering, “What are some signs and symptoms of Lupus?” Some signs and symptoms of lupus include fatigue, fever, joint pain, and light sensitivity. Below is a list of other common symptoms associated with lupus:
- Lupus Rash: A Butterfly pattern that spreads across the nose and cheeks. Flat, red, itchy, and usually appears after sun exposure. Occasionally, a rash may appear on other parts of the body, such as the arms and legs. Not every patient will present with lupus rash.
- Muscle and joint pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the legs or around the eyes
- Abdominal Pain
- Headaches, dizziness
- Chest Pain
- Hair Loss
- Sun or light sensitivity
- Kidney problems
- Mouth sores
Understanding the range of symptoms associated with lupus is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. Monitoring these symptoms, understanding their fluctuating nature, and maintaining regular communication with healthcare professionals are vital steps in effectively managing lupus. Contact our experienced Miami lupus treatment doctors near you today.
What Causes Lupus?
Anyone can get lupus; however, it is 9 times more common in women than in men. It is often diagnosed between the ages of 15 – 45 but it can appear much later in life as well. You are much more likely to be diagnosed with Lupus if you have a family member with it. Autoimmune diseases often run in families. Researchers initially began looking into the role of genetics in the development of lupus because of the familial links between patients. For example, if you have a sibling with the disease, you have a 20 times increased risk of developing lupus. However, just because there is a genetic link to this disease does not mean that you will develop lupus.
Many scientists believe that a combination of hormones, genetics, and environment play a role in both the development of lupus and the disease progression. Hormones are a type of chemical in the body that regulate several bodily functions. The human body produces over one hundred different types of hormones. Several of these hormones have a direct effect on the immune system. Two of the hormones that directly affect the immune system and are believed to be involved in the development and progression of lupus are estrogen and testosterone. Women have much higher estrogen levels than men, which is one of the reasons women have a much higher risk of developing lupus. Research has shown a link between estrogen and increased lupus symptoms.
It is important for patients to understand the link between hormones and lupus. Both for the possible prevention of developing the disease if they have family members with lupus, and therefore an increased predisposition to developing it, but also for reduction of symptoms. It is so important to make sure that your hormones are properly balanced to help manage your lupus symptoms and improve your quality of life. Balancing hormones can include a multidisciplinary approach, including medications, healthy eating, and exercise. Hormone levels naturally fluctuate in different stages of life, and it is important to be aware of them and how they can impact the disease risk and symptoms. As we learn more about the role of hormones in lupus, we can begin to create more targeted treatments and effective ways we can treat this disease.
Are There Treatments For Lupus?
Several lupus treatment options are available that aim to manage and alleviate these symptoms, helping patients lead more comfortable lives. These lupus treatments focus on different parts of the disease, like lowering swelling, controlling the immune system response, and preventing organ damage. Here’s a list of some of the most commonly prescribed medications for lupus, each with its own role in the management of this condition:
- Corticosteroids (Prednisone): These help reduce swelling, pain, and tenderness. In higher doses, they also calm the immune system.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These drugs are used for pain and inflammation.
- Antimalarial drugs: These drugs are used in lupus to prevent blood clots and organ damage. The most commonly taken Antimalarial drug is Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil).
- Immunosuppressants: These drugs reduce lupus symptoms by lessening the immune system activity. Some immunosuppressants used for this are azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and methotrexate.
While medication plays a crucial role in managing lupus, it’s equally important to be aware of certain things you should avoid to prevent worsening your condition. Lupus can be sensitive to various environmental factors, medications, or food. Here is a list of things that are recommended to avoid if you have lupus:
- Sunlight – can cause rashes and flares
- Bactrim and Septra – (sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim)
- Avoid certain foods such as Garlic and alfalfa Sprouts.
- Echinacea
- Penicillin or other antibiotic drugs such as amoxicillin, ampicillin, and cloxacillin
Managing lupus effectively involves a balanced approach that includes the right treatments and avoiding certain triggers. Understanding and incorporating these medications and lifestyle adjustments can better control lupus symptoms and improve your quality of life. We would love to help you live pain free. Contact our nearby lupus treatment doctors today.
Contact an Experienced Miami Lupus Disease Treatment Doctor Near You
If you are looking for a Miami lupus treatment doctor near you, contact our team at Rheumwell at (305) 671-3447 today. At Rheumwell Rheumatology Miami, we understand the complexities of this disease. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care. We blend cutting-edge treatments with a holistic approach to help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don’t let lupus define your journey. Take the first step towards better health. Contact Rheumwell Rheumatology Miami today to schedule a consultation with our lupus experts.
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