Lupus affects 1.5 million people in the U.S., and 90% of those are women. Often called “the great imitator”, this chronic illness can initially look like other diseases, and symptoms can even come and go, delaying a correct diagnosis by months or even years. In fact 1 in 3 people living with lupus deal with multiple autoimmune conditions! So, exactly what is lupus and what causes it to wreak havoc on your body? Is there a way to manage it? Keep reading to find out how Dr. Autoimmune helps support lupus patients and find relief!
What is lupus?
Lupus is a long-term autoimmune condition that causes pain in any area of the body. This type of chronic inflammation can harm your joints, skin, and even your internal organs, resulting in a variety of different symptoms. While there are several types of lupus, like drug-induced lupus and cutaneous lupus, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common form, as well as the most severe. The long-term effects of SLE are quite serious if left untreated, from kidney damage/failure to a greater risk for heart attack, stroke, and more.
Common Symptoms of Lupus
One of the reasons autoimmune diseases like lupus can be hard to diagnose is that there isn’t just one sign for this condition. People may experience different symptoms at varying levels of severity. Here are a few typical lupus symptoms you should know:
- Feeling tired all the time
- Low-grade fevers
- Joint swelling and pain
- Headaches
- Sensitivity to light
- Butterfly-shaped rash on cheeks and nose
- Hair loss
Since these symptoms can mimic other illnesses such as arthritis, how is lupus diagnosed? As autoimmune specialists, we look at multiple aspects of your health in order to create a complete picture, including a timeline of your symptoms, medical testing like bloodwork, and family history. If enough of the puzzle pieces fit, we can then come up with a personalized care plan that aligns with a lupus diagnosis.
Lupus Triggers and Possible Causes
Lupus is not contagious, and unfortunately, there’s no known cause for why autoimmune conditions like lupus occur. Autoimmunity is the result of your immune system attacking itself, but things like certain medications, infections, and even stress or trauma can trigger illnesses such as lupus.
Like most autoimmune conditions, there is no “cure” for lupus; however, there are options and therapies available to help support and manage this condition and improve your symptoms. In fact, it is possible to go into remission, and our functional medicine doctors have helped many patients experience significant improvement!
Our Holistic Approach to Autoimmune Disease
So now you know what lupus is, but how can you get help? Our 100% remote holistic medical services are convenient and accessible for all, Dr. Ian and the incredible team have years of experience supporting all kinds of autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s, multiple sclerosis, and lupus. We look for new and innovative therapies, from IV therapy, DHEA for lupus, supplements like NAC, and lifestyle modifications such as nutrition, stress management, and gut health.
Are you looking for support for your autoimmune condition? Learn more about our DIY Reset Program and take the first steps toward better health today!
