10 Things You Need To Know About Lupus

1. It is an autoimmune disease. It is the result of the body’s immune system attacking healthy cells and tissues, causing inflammation and organ damage (kidneys, lungs, heart, brain, central nervous system).
   
2. Symptoms. They mimic symptoms of many other diseases -- including the common cold, flu, joint pain, fever and rashes.
   
3. What causes lupus? It is believed to be caused by both genetics and environmental triggers.
   
4. Who gets lupus? Anyone can get lupus. Women and communities of color – African Americans, Asians and Latinos are disproportionately affected by the disease.
   
5. Diagnosis. Lupus can be difficult to diagnose. It can take an average of 4 to 6 years, and after seeing 3 different doctors before a person is diagnosed with lupus. The American College of Rheumatology has established 11 criteria for diagnosing lupus. A patient with at least four of the 11 criteria can be officially given a lupus diagnosis.
   
6. Is there a test to diagnose lupus? There is no single test to diagnose lupus. The doctor will look at a patient’s history, symptoms and order several blood tests (double-stranded DNA, ANA) before a diagnosis is made.
   
   
7. Cure and Treatment. Currently, there is no cure for lupus, but there are medications that can treat specific symptoms. Doctors prescribe drugs to reduce inflammation, decrease production of antibodies that attack health cells and tissues, and treat infections.
   
8. Lupus Flare. With most lupus patients there is an alternating period of lupus flare and remission. Flares can be triggered by environmental and other factors like sun exposure, stress, infections and even certain medications.
   
9. Incidence and Prevalence. It is estimated that more than 1.5 Million Americans have lupus. Worldwide, the number is 5 Million and 100,000 more are diagnosed each year.
   
10. Support. If you or someone you know has, or suspects having lupus, seek help from your doctor, Rheumatologist, or primary health care provider. Contact the Lupus Foundation of Northern California (www.lfnc.org) for resources, referrals, information and support.
    
    More about Lupus....read here: http://www.positivelyfilipino.com/magazine/partner-genetics-may-be-key-in-detecting-causes-of-lupus