Understanding Lupus: A Complex Autoimmune Disease
5/12/2025
Lupus, medically known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the body’s own tissues and organs. “Lupus can lead to inflammation and damage in various parts of the body,
including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood vessels,” mentions Dr. Meredith Pridgeon, board certified internal medicine physician at Lakeside Physicians.
“Lupus is a complex condition with varying symptoms and degrees of severity, making diagnosis and treatment challenging.”
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of lupus remains unclear, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Certain genes may predispose individuals to lupus, but environmental triggers, such as infections, sunlight, and stress, often play a role in its development. Hormonal factors, particularly the role of estrogen, are thought to contribute to the higher prevalence of lupus in women, especially those of childbearing age. Women are nine times more likely to develop lupus than men, with a disproportionate impact on individuals of African, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American descent.
Symptoms
Lupus symptoms vary widely but often include:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain and swelling
- A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Unexplained fevers
- Hair loss
- Mouth sores
- Raynaud’s phenomenon (fingers turning white or blue in response to cold or stress)
Severe cases can lead to organ damage, such as kidney inflammation (lupus nephritis), cardiovascular complications, and neurological issues.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing lupus can be difficult due to its diverse symptoms that mimic other diseases. Physicians rely on a combination of clinical evaluations, laboratory tests (e.g., antinuclear antibody test), and patient history. There is no cure for lupus, but treatment
aims to control symptoms and prevent organ damage. Common treatments include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation
- Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants to reduce immune activity
- Antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine for skin and joint symptoms
- Biologic therapies, such as belimumab, to target specific aspects of the immune response
Living with Lupus
Managing lupus often requires lifestyle adjustments, including avoiding sun exposure, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and adhering to treatment plans. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are crucial for monitoring disease activity and preventing complications.
Lupus is a life-altering condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach to care. With advancements in research and treatment, many individuals with lupus can lead fulfilling lives. Awareness and early intervention are key to improving outcomes and quality of life for those affected by this complex disease.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pridgeon, please call (817) 573-8805 or visit https://lakegranburymedical.com/MeredithPridgeon.
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