Lupus in women is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues and organs instead of protecting them. It is more common in women than men.
Symptoms of lupus range from mild symptoms such as fatigue and joint pain to more serious symptoms affecting the heart, nervous system, and kidneys.
What is lupus in women
Symptoms of lupus (SLE) are a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body produces antibodies that attack healthy organs and tissues.
This disorder leads to inflammation that may affect the joints, skin, blood, kidneys, heart, and lungs. These symptoms increase during periods of active disease and decrease in severity during periods of remission.
Causes of Lupus
The exact cause of lupus in women is not yet known, but several factors may play a role in the development of the disease:
- Exposure to stress and psychological pressure.
- Certain viral infections.
- Excessive exposure to sunlight.
- Female hormones, such as estrogen.
- A family history of autoimmune diseases.
Common symptoms of lupus in women
Symptoms vary. They may appear suddenly or gradually, and may be temporary or persistent. They appear in flare-ups and vary depending on the type of lupus:
- Fever and fatigue.
- Headache, anxiety, and memory loss.
- Shortness of breath and chest pain.
- Increased urination with blood in the urine.
- Swelling and swelling of the extremities and weight gain.
- Joint and muscle pain and swelling.
- Fingers turning blue in the cold.
- Butterfly-shaped facial rash.
How is lupus diagnosed in women
Diagnosing lupus in women is complex because its symptoms are similar to other diseases. Doctors rely on medical history, physical examination, and heart and lung x-rays.
This is in addition to laboratory tests such as antibody testing, kidney and liver function tests, and measuring red blood cell counts. A skin or kidney biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of internal organ damage.
Are there types of lupus in women
Yes, there are more than one type of lupus in women, and their symptoms and severity vary:
- Drug-induced lupus: appears as a result of taking certain medications.
- Neonatal lupus: affects newborns and is transmitted from mother to child.
- Cutaneous lupus: causes a rash and sensitivity to the sun.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus: is more common and more serious and affects the heart, joints, and lungs.
Complications of lupus that may occur in women
Neglecting treatment for lupus or failing to control it may lead to:
- Kidney failure.
- Pulmonary hemorrhage.
- Myocarditis.
- Risk of stroke.
- Convulsions and chronic headaches.
- Memory and concentration problems. The risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and preeclampsia.
How to prevent and reduce the complications of lupus
Lupus cannot be prevented because it is an autoimmune disease, but complications can be reduced by:
- Adherence to medication.
- Exercise.
- Eating a healthy diet.
- Continuous medical follow-up.
- Avoid sun exposure and protect the skin.
- Manage stress and get adequate sleep.
Medications for Lupus in Women
There is no definitive cure for lupus in women, but the goal of medications is to control symptoms and prevent complications:
- Blemishes.
- Prednisolone.
- Hydroxychloroquine.
- NSAIDs.
Is lupus curable
Lupus in women cannot be completely cured, but it can be controlled and managed with adherence to treatment and a healthy lifestyle.
A Summary of Lupus in Women
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs in women and affects the joints, skin, and sometimes internal organs such as the heart and kidneys.
There is no definitive cure for this disease, but symptoms can be controlled and complications reduced through medication, sun exposure, and regular follow-up with a doctor.