What is Lupus?

About Lupus:

• It is an autoimmune disease that causes your immune system to damage organs and tissue throughout your body. 
• It causes inflammation that can affect your skin, joints, blood, and organs like your kidneys, lungs, and heart. 
• Causes: The cause of lupus is unknown. It’s thought to be the result of a mix of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors.
• Lupus is much more common among women than men.
• There are several kinds of lupus:
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common type. It can be mild or severe and can affect many parts of the body.
  • Discoid lupus causes a red rash that doesn't go away.
  • Subacute cutaneous lupus causes sores after being out in the sun.
  • Drug-induced lupus is caused by certain medicines. It usually goes away when you stop taking the medicine.
  • Neonatal lupus, which is rare, affects newborns. It is probably caused by certain antibodies from the mother.
• Symptoms: Lupus can have many symptoms, and they differ from person to person. Some of the more common ones are:
• Pain or swelling in joints
• Muscle pain
• Fever with no known cause
• Red rashes, most often on the face (also called the "butterfly rash")
• Chest pain when taking a deep breath
• Hair loss
• Pale or purple fingers or toes
• Sensitivity to the sun
• Treatment: There is no cure for lupus, but medicines and lifestyle changes can help control it.