Lupus, an often overlooked autoimmune disease, primarily affects women and can seriously affect their health. Understanding its symptoms and identifying them early is crucial for effective management.
- Lupus is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects women and can affect various organs.
- Skin symptoms, joint pain, chronic fatigue and systemic involvement are common signs of lupus.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to improve the quality of life of lupus patients.
A sneak attack on your own body. Lupus is a chronic disease in which the immune system, which is usually protective, mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the body. This condition mainly affects women of childbearing age, but can also occur in men and children. Its symptoms can be multiple and affect various organs, making diagnosis and treatment complex.
Skin symptoms: when the skin sounds the alarm
Skin manifestations are often the first visible signs of lupus. A characteristic feature is a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, extending from the cheeks to the bridge of the nose. It is sensitive to the sun and may worsen with sun exposure. Other skin signs include red patches on the body, circular lesions, and increased photosensitivity.
Joint pain: a daily handicap
Joint pain and arthritis are common in lupus patients. Affecting several joints, mainly the wrists, hands, knees and ankles, they are often accompanied by swelling and stiffness. Although less severe than those of rheumatoid arthritis, this pain can significantly impair quality of life.
Chronic fatigue and systemic damage: a wide range of symptoms
Lupus is not limited to joints and skin. Chronic fatigue, which can be debilitating, is a common symptom. Kidney damage can progress to kidney failure if left untreated. Heart and lung problems, such as pericarditis and pleurisy, can occur, causing chest pain and difficulty breathing. Neurological problems, such as headaches, seizures, and cognitive impairment, are also possible.
Diagnosis: a challenge for doctors
The diversity of symptoms and their similarity to other diseases make diagnosing lupus complex. There is no single test, and doctors rely on a combination of blood tests, urine tests, biopsies, and clinical evaluations to make a diagnosis. The presence of anti-native DNA and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) is common in lupus patients, but their absence does not rule out the disease.
Treatment and care: towards a better quality of life
Treatment aims to control symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) relieve joint pain. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, prescribed for more severe cases, reduce the activity of the immune system. Antimalarials, such as hydroxychloroquine, are effective against skin and joint symptoms. Multidisciplinary care involving various specialists is often necessary to manage this complex disease.
Vigilance and early management for a better prognosis
Lupus is a multifaceted disease that requires special attention for early detection. If you experience symptoms such as facial rashes, joint pain, or chronic fatigue, see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for people with lupus.