Lupus is an autoimmune illness that may trigger irritation and ache all through the physique. There’s no remedy for lupus, however it may be managed and handled.
Lupus remedy objectives
Handle signs
Lupus signs like muscle ache, fever, rashes, fatigue, hair loss and eye issues can intervene with every day life.
Cut back irritation
The irritation brought on by lupus can have an effect on many elements of the physique, together with your joints, pores and skin, kidneys, blood cells, mind, coronary heart and lungs.
Forestall flares
Flares might be delicate, or they are often critical sufficient to disrupt — and even threaten — your life.
Reduce organ injury
Lupus could cause main, irreversible injury to the kidneys, lungs and different organs.
Lupus flares can improve an individual’s threat of organ injury.
Sorts of lupus remedy
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) — used to cut back irritation, ache and fever
- Steroids — work rapidly to minimize ache and irritation by curbing overactive white blood cells
- Antimalarials (medication used to deal with malaria) — management signs and flares by lowering proteins within the blood that assault wholesome cells
- B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) protein inhibitor — a sort of drug often known as a biologic which will scale back the variety of irregular B cells regarded as an issue for individuals with lupus
- Immunosuppressives (together with some chemotherapy medication) — assist cease your immune system from attacking your physique’s wholesome tissue
- Life-style modifications — staying out of the solar and reducing stress will help maintain your signs below management
Issues associated to lupus might have their very own therapies, resembling:
- Antibiotics for infections
- Statins for top ldl cholesterol
- Anticonvulsants for seizures
- Vitamin D for kidney issues
Managing lupus
Some life-style modifications will help maintain your lupus below higher management.
Shield your self from the solar
Decrease your stress
Get good sleep
Carry out low-impact bodily exercise
Don’t smoke
Discovering the appropriate remedy
Lupus is an advanced sickness that impacts everybody in a different way. So, it’s necessary for scientists to continue to learn about and growing therapies for lupus.
It’s additionally necessary so that you can advocate for your self. Speak to your healthcare supplier about growing an individualized remedy plan that can assist you reside your greatest life.
This academic useful resource was created with help from Novartis, a 2023 HealthyWomen Company Advisory Council member.