Lupus Awareness Month

Lupus Awareness Month

May is Lupus Awareness Month, and yes this is the initial reaction from Dr. House in a diagnosis. In the United States, there are over 1.5 million people who suffer from lupus. Do you know someone who has lupus?

What is Lupus?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own immune system. The parts of the body that are affected include the brain, lungs, joints, skin, and kidneys. Lupus may be triggered by drugs, infections, and light.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of lupus are, “fatigue, fever, joint pain, a butterfly-shaped rash across the face, skin lesions, blue fingers, chest pain, dry eyes, and confusion.” If you think you may have lupus, please contact your primary care physician.

Unfortunately, lupus tends to appear more frequently in women. Lupus occurs more frequently in Hispanics, Asian-Americans, and African-Americans.

Complications from Lupus

There are many severe complications associated with lupus. The kidneys become damaged that they may go into kidney failure. Renal failure may kill someone with lupus. Some people with lupus have memory issues, and their brain is damaging causing confusion and seizures. Other complications include bone tissue death and miscarriage.

Tips to Manage Lupus

1. Regularly schedule doctor visits
2. Wear sunscreen – limit sun exposure
3. Exercise regularly
4. Quit smoking
5. Eat well
6. Take vitamin D
7. Find a support group

Final Thoughts

Do you feel as though you are more educated on lupus than before reading this article? If you have lupus or know of someone with lupus, please comment below. Do you have any ideas you would like us to write about? Let us know!