Introduction
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus often abbreviate as SLE or Lupus, is an illness of the immune system, (autoimmune connective tissue disease) a condition in which the body’s defense mechanism begins to attack itself through an excess of antibodies in the blood stream, causing inflammation and damage in the tissue, joints, muscles and other vital organs. SLE most often harms the Heart, Joi
nts, Skin, Lungs, Blood Vessels, Kidney and Nervous System. Disease occurs nine times more often women than men, especially in women on their age of 15 to 45 years, and is also more common in those of non-European descent. There is no cure for SLE only. The treatment of SLE involves preventing Flares and reducing their severity and duration when they occur. It can be fatal; it cannot be prevented, but the consequences can be prevented. The course of the disease is unpredictable, with periods of illness. It is the disease of Flares and Remission. Symptoms of Lupus
Although there are many possible manifestations of lupus, those listed below are some of more common. Lupus is a disease which can present in many different ways, rarely do two people have exactly the same symptoms, and these can vary in number.
•Joint/muscle aches, pains and swollen
•Butterfly rash over cheeks
•Kidney problems
•Extreme fatigue and weakness
•Oral/nasal ulcers
•Hair loss
•Rashes from sunlight/UV light (photo sensitivity)
•Depression
•Inflammation of the tissues covering internal organs with associated chest and/or abdomen pain.
•Poor blood circulation causing the tips of fingers and toes to turn white then blue on exposure to cold (Raynaud’s phenomenon)
•Hematological disorders including anemia
•Headaches, migraine
