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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Early symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease causing multi-system damage, with clinical presentations that vary greatly between individuals. Most cases begin gradually, but some can onset abruptly, meaning severe complications that can threaten life can emerge within weeks or days. Early symptoms are often atypical. During active phases, most patients with systemic lupus erythematosus experience varying degrees of low-grade fever, with low to moderate fevers being most common. The primary manifestations include erythema of the skin and mucous membranes, and some individuals may experience photosensitivity, which results in a facial rash after exposure to sunlight. This is one of the most common clinical presentations.
Can systemic lupus erythematosus be cured?
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a multi-system autoimmune disease and a chronic condition with an unclear cause, making it incurable. Treatment primarily involves medication to control the progression of the disease, prevent relapse, and delay the onset of complications in other organs. The comprehensive goal of treatment is to manage these aspects. Additionally, exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided, and women should avoid oral contraceptives, as these can trigger active lupus. Furthermore, it's crucial to avoid consuming figs, bayberries, and other fruits that have been exposed to ultraviolet light over a long period, as they can also induce lupus activity.
Initial symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus
Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that affects multiple systems and organs and is associated with a variety of autoimmune antibodies, primarily occurring in women of childbearing age. Its clinical manifestations are diverse, with the condition being mild and recurrently evolving. The most common symptoms involve changes to the skin, where various types of edematous erythema can occur, and in severe cases, there can be blisters, ulcers, erosion, skin atrophy, hyperpigmentation, and scar formation. Among these, the butterfly rash is most specific. Additionally, other symptoms may include joint swelling and pain; kidney involvement can lead to foamy urine, which is a common presentation; gastrointestinal involvement can cause diarrhea, and neurological involvement can lead to mental disorders and seizures. Therefore, once facial rashes, photosensitivity, or joint swelling and pain occur, it is crucial to be vigilant, undergo relevant examinations promptly, diagnose early, and treat early, as it is very important for the prognosis of the disease.
What causes systemic lupus erythematosus?
Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus belongs to autoimmune diseases and is a multisystemic autoimmune disorder. It is a chronic disease that cannot be cured. It can only be managed through medication to control the progression of the disease, prevent relapses, delay damage to other organs, and prevent complications. This is the overall principle of treatment. Its cause is currently unclear. It is only related to factors such as environmental pollution, viral infections, genetics, and hormones, according to expert research. However, there is no specific definitive cause identified.
Can systemic lupus erythematosus become pregnant?
Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a multisystemic, systemic autoimmune disease that can involve multiple organs throughout the body. Regarding the issue of whether one with systemic lupus erythematosus can become pregnant, it cannot be generalized and must be considered in conjunction with the condition of the disease. For example, if the disease is in its early stages and has been stabilized through treatment, then it is possible to become pregnant. If systemic lupus erythematosus has already presented with severe complications, such as lupus nephritis, significant proteinuria, or an increase in creatinine urea, affecting kidney function and causing kidney damage, then it is not recommended to become pregnant during this period. Pregnancy at this time not only offers no substantial benefit to the person with systemic lupus erythematosus but can also increase the burden on the kidneys, leading to further deterioration of kidney function, which can be life-threatening.
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a disease.
Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic disease. It is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems and organs and cannot be cured. It can only be controlled over the long term with medication. The goals of comprehensive treatment are to control symptoms, prevent relapses, slow the progression of the disease, and provide symptomatic treatment. Because this disease cannot be cured, it is important to avoid sun exposure, overwork, and getting chilled in daily life to prevent triggering or worsening the condition. Particularly in women, it is crucial to avoid oral contraceptives.
Dietary Restrictions for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems, including the skin, heart, kidneys, lungs, and nervous system, among other organs. The skin, kidneys, and lungs are the most commonly affected organs. If the kidneys are affected and proteinuria occurs, it is necessary to restrict salt intake. The general principle is to have a low-salt, low-fat diet, and to limit the intake of high-quality proteins, which mainly refers to lean meats and pure milk. It is necessary to drink more water, avoid sun exposure, avoid oral contraceptives, and in terms of diet, fruits such as figs and mangoes that have been exposed to sunlight for a long time are prohibited, including tomatoes, while other fruits can be consumed in moderation.
What department should I go to for systemic lupus erythematosus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease and can test positive for multiple antibodies, affecting various organs throughout the body. Its primary manifestations are damage to the skin, mucous membranes, and kidneys. The most common and characteristic symptom is the butterfly rash on the skin and mucous membranes. Some people may also experience facial rashes, blisters, and even chilblain-like changes. Such skin changes should be viewed with caution. Additionally, symptoms can include general weakness and low-grade fever. This condition requires formal treatment from a rheumatology and immunology department.