What is Lupus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a chronic, potentially debilitating or fatal autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's cells and tissue, resul...
Join Now
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a chronic, potentially debilitating or fatal autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's cells and tissue, resul...

| Topics | Replies | Last Post | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
2 |
By luvmyanimals
8:08 pm |
||||
|
|
0 |
By chickadee42
5:09 pm |
||||
|
|
1 |
By sylvieh
4:02 pm |
||||
|
|
4 |
By Allisonc79
3:40 pm |
||||
|
|
3 |
By Allisonc79
3:35 pm |
||||
|
|
4 |
By Allisonc79
3:29 pm |
||||
|
|
1 |
By goldengirl3
3:23 pm |
||||
|
|
5 |
By Allisonc79
3:20 pm |
||||
|
|
0 |
By luvmyanimals
11:37 am |
||||
|
|
4 |
By Lyndi
11:19 am |
||||
|
|
6 |
By Mel1967
10:10 pm |
||||
|
|
9 |
By Allisonc79
Yesterday |
||||
|
|
2 |
By penny59
Yesterday |
||||
|
|
7 |
By Allisonc79
Yesterday |
||||
|
|
21 |
By Allisonc79
Yesterday |
||||
As many on Dailystrength know, recent genetics discoveries are expanding basic science research into the basic mechanism of health and disease. ... Read More »
1) Demerol: I'll never forget a lecture I attended as a resident by a well known toxicologist who said Demerol should be pulled from the ... Read More »
Things are really really messed up here right now....
Ellocin Nov 20, 2009
Journal Entry for November 20, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
I came home yesterday (well to kyles). I have an e...
LivingLupus Nov 19, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
I am so tired can barely keep my eyes open. I have...
Resse Nov 19, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009 |
It is so hard not to cut, it seems as if I am bein...
chynanoone Nov 19, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Haven't been to the gym in 2 days, feel a litt...
brunob Nov 19, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Don't you hate that? Waking up WAY too early i...
suey2y Nov 19, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009 |
I didn't want today to be a day of getting str...
Mojosfire Nov 18, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
london was exhausting especially as i had been fee...
jacquelin... Nov 18, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
amethystchic Nov 18, 2009
Journal Entry for November 18, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
I havent been really drinking my medication lately...
kathyventura Nov 18, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 |
Today I felt like looking up stuff about lupus, i ...
kathyventura Nov 18, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 |
Time ago I decided to find my other half; I...
catprince... Nov 18, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Journal Entry for November 20, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009



The technical name for lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is an auto-immune disease in which the immune system cannot distinguish between threats (like viruses and bacteria), and healthy cells and tissue. As a result, the body produces antibodies that inflict cell damage, most commonly targeting joints, skin, kidneys and the nervous system. Lupus symptoms vary, but there are certain commonalities: fatigue, muscle and joint ache, skin rashes (particularly on the bridge of the nose), and ulcers. About nine times as many young women as young men are diagnosed with lupus.
A mix of genes and environmental factors most likely trigger lupus, though this has not been proven, and the specific roles of these factors are not known. Likely environmental factors include ultraviolet light, viruses, and certain drugs. A single gene has not been identified as causing lupus, though scientists suspect a group of genes associated with chromosome 6.
There are three main groups of commonly prescribed medications for lupus: (1) anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, Advil etc., (2) Antimalarial drugs, which are helpful in preventing flares and treating general symptoms (Plaquenil is the most popular in this group), and (3) corticosteroids, which consist of steroid hormones and reduce inflammation. Other kinds of medication, such as immunosuppressants, may be prescribed in more severe cases of lupus.
As the Lupus Foundation of America notes on its Web site, it is important for those coping with lupus to develop and maintain a strong support system: "Participating in a support group can provide emotional help, boost self-esteem and morale, and help develop or improve coping skills."
The DailyStrength lupus support group consists of individuals around the world coping with lupus. Tapping into their experience and chatting about your concerns and options can help relieve isolation and encourage empowerment.
The following resources may be helpful:




Lupus Warriors
Lupus Encouragement...
Natural Healing