Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

What is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease, also known as a chronic disease that shows up in different stages of worsening symptoms. The word ‘lupus’ is a term used in several autoimmune diseases that show matching laboratory features and clinical presentations. However, SLE is the most frequent type of lupus.

Causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

The accurate causes of SLE are still unidentified but various factors associate with the immune disease, such as:

  • Autoimmune conditions running in the family
  • Physical or emotional stress
  • Exposure to ultraviolet rays
  • Some specific medications
  • Trauma
  • Viruses
  • Female hormone Estrogen (as SLE is caused more in women than men)

Symptoms of Systematic Lupus Erythematosus

The symptoms usually change over time and show based on different phases, ranging alternatively from mild to severe. The most noted symptoms are;

  • Joint pain
  • Severe fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Joint swelling
  • Hair loss
  • Anemia
  • Blood-clotting issues
  • Raynaud’s phenomenon (when fingers turn blue or white and tingle when cold)
  • A rash on the nose and cheeks (butterfly rash)

Other symptoms mostly depend on the body part attacked by SLE, such a the heart, the skin or the digestive tract.

When to see a doctor

If you are noticing sun sensitivity rashes or any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should see a doctor at the earliest. He will check for possible signs and symptoms by conducting certain medical tests like antibody tests, urinalysis, and other kinds of screenings.

Unfortunately, there’s no particular cure for SLE, but the symptoms can be eased out with proper treatment procedure. The most suitable treatments include anti-inflammatory medications for joint pain and stiffness, steroid creams for rashes, anti-malarial drugs for skin and joint issues, corticosteroids to reduce immune response.

In severe conditions of SLE, your doctor may suggest seeing a rheumatologist. He may also recommend altering lifestyle habits and diets. If you have any relatable symptoms of SLE, book a consultation with DR. M. V. Rao right away!

Staying healthy

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Location

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Rajbhavan Road, Somajiguda, Matha Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana.
500082

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Mallela Clinic, Street No 4, Vijay Nagar Colony, Hyderabad, Telangana.
500057

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M: drmvraomallela@gmail.com

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