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What to look for
profound fatigue
muscle or joint aches
skin rash.
sun sensitivity.
weight loss.
nose, mouth, or throat
ulcers.
enlarged lymph nodes.
poor circulation in
fingers and toes.
bald
patches.
discoloured urine, or
frequent or blocked urination.
Lupus is a disease of the
immune system in which the body fights part of itself instead of concentrating on the
invaders only. Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), causes a skin rash that is particularly
sensitive to sunlight. The other kind, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is more serious.
It affects the skin and
other vital organs, often causing a raised, scaly butterfly-shaped rash across the bridge
of the nose and cheeks that can leave scars if it goes untreated. This type of lupus may
also damage the connective tissue in the joints, muscles, and skin, as well as the
membranes surrounding the lungs, heart, kidneys, and brain.
This disorder can afflict
people on and off and for different periods of time. It’s intensity can range from
annoying to debilitating.
Causes
The causes for lupus are
unknown. All that researchers know for sure is that the disease is associated with
abnormalities of the immune system.
Environmental elements,
ranging from viral and bacterial infections to severe emotional stress or overexposure to
sunlight may help trigger the disease.
You will need to contact
your doctor for a proper diagnosis and tests.
Traditional Treatment
Your doctor will no doubt
suggest you take a Pain Killer for any pain associated with the joints and a medication
for the rashes.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
There are a number of
alternative solutions for relieving the symptoms of this disorder.
Dietary
Considerations - Researchers suggest to avoid any foods that may cause food
allergies (see entry on allergies). Researchers suggest to avoid any foods that may cause food
allergies (see entry on allergies).
Try cutting down on red
meat and dairy products, and increasing consumption of fish high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Alfalfa may aggravate the symptoms so avoid this food.
The following
supplements may benefit lupus patients:-
Vitamins
B5,
C, and E; and preparations of slippery elm (Ulmus fulva). Beta carotene (see vitamin A) may help as well. Receive professional
advice for suggested dosages.
Personal Care
Avoid sun exposure by
wearing protective clothing and sunscreen.
When to seek further
professional advice
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