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...

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The Week In Tragedy...5 Things we can Learn.

By Dr. Orrange June 30, 2009 9:12pm 33 Comments

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 market...that it doesn't work any better than any other pain medication and patients love the high it gives them. The American Pain Society said in 2003 that Demerol has no role in acute pain management …

"Fill all thy bones with aches." What to do for Some Common Orthopedic Complaints

By Dr. Orrange June 15, 2009 12:20am 29 Comments

Aches and pains, swelling, clicking, popping and soreness in our joints and muscles are common complaints in doctor's offices and at dinner parties. Listed here are common orthopedic ailments I hear about that may have come on suddenly, yet have persisted and often have some easy remedies.

 

1) THE COMPLAINT:  PAIN AND TINGLING …

Top 10 Things I am Asked About in my Practice:

By Dr. Orrange May 31, 2009 11:15pm 21 Comments

1) Do I need an annual physical? As many of you know Medicare does NOT cover annual physicals... so the question is do you really need one?

For females over 40 you need to come in for an annual mammogram, and either a once a year or every three years (in low- risk folks) Pap smear.

For men and women over 40 I say you need to come in and this is …

Lupus Information

What is Lupus?

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.

Causes of Lupus (SLE)

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.

Treatments for Lupus (SLE)

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.

Lupus Resources and Support

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:

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