Lupus is a common disease found in women, though it does not fail to attack men at times. It is mainly caused due to the development of undesirable antibodies inside the body. Unlike other diseases, the autoimmune system of the body induces lupus in human body, leading to inflammation of various body tissues.
Which Body Parts are targetedc
The development of antibodies can take place in any part of the body. Hence, lupus can target any body part from lungs, kidneys and heart to skin, nervous system and various body joints.
Who are Probable Victimsc
It has been estimated that 90% of the patients suffering from lupus are women. Women in the age group of 18-45 are more likely to be victimized by lupus. The women from regions like Native America, Latin America and of African American origin are at higher risks of obtaining this disease.
Why is Lupus of Concern among Womenc
Lupus is a disease that can further lead to a number of serious problems. For instance, women suffering from lupus become more prone to heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure, diabetes, joint and muscle pains. Furthermore, lupus in women can also lead to weakening of bones and emergence of diseases like osteoporosis. So fatigue and pains are obviously most prominent problems induced in lupus patients.
How is Lupus Causedc
1-As mentioned in the beginning, immune system of human body is mainly responsible for introduction of lupus in human body. The unfavorable antibodies developed in the body can attack various tissues of the body, thereby leading them to have inflammations.
2-The second-most common cause of lupus is hormone change, especially during the period of pregnancy and during childbirth.
3-Another reason for occurrence of lupus is exposure to extreme environmental conditions like sunlight.
4-Stress is also one of the pertinent causes of the disease.
5-This disorder is often caused due to intake of certain medications, which can advance the development of bas antibodies.
6-Lastly, some types of viruses can also cause lupus in women.
Common Symptoms of Lupus
Lupus occurs in a number of variations, including systemic lupus erythematosus, discoid lupus, neonatal lupus and subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus. The most common symptoms of all these variations are:
1-Pain and swelling in the body joints.
2-Appearance of skin rashes, which include rashes in the shape of butterfly over nose and cheeks and sores on neck and chest.
3-Pain in the chest, especially during heavy breathing.
4-Inflammation in body organs like heart, lungs and internal organs.
5-Fatigue and anemia.
6-Hair loss.
7-Sensitivity to sunlight.
8-Loss of memory, lack of agility and presence of mind and confusion.
9-Abnormalities related to the nervous system, kidneys and abdomen.
Blood tests, x-rays and other recommended laboratory tests are often used to diagnose lupus. The correct diagnosis and subsequent treatment from a medical expert can easily solve your problem. It is highly recommended that you consult your doctor on the appearance of early signs and symptoms of this disease to get the best treatment.
To Your Health!
Tags: diagnosis, lab tests, lupus, lupus lab tests diagnosis
My doctor won’t make a clinical diagnosis for Lupus & I don’t test out. What can I do?
I have 9 of the 11 indicators of Lupus. I just cannot “pass” the blood tests.
My gyno thinks I definitely have Lupus, but my rheumy don’t make the diagnosis for lack of laboratory results.
My gyno told me to file for disability, but I am afraid I will need verified lab tests to get anyone to listen to me.
What can I do?
Unexplained Symptoms and no diagnosis?
My mother is having a terrible time getting to the bottom of her medical issue. Any good solid information is welcomed.
She states:
I have been diagnosed with Hashimotos Thyroiditis and Low Vitamin D.
Although my labs show that I am in the early stages of the disease and there is no evidence that I have been affected by the disease (in the form of hypothyroidism) I have all the symptoms one could imagine.
I have had every lab test I can think of and an ultrasound that showed goiters on my thyroid. Biopsy showed no cancer.
I have had TSH, Free T4, T3, am still waiting on results for Free T3. I have had a full range of hormone test. I cannot think of anything I have not had that might tell me something, but then, I am not the doctor.
I have been tested for Celiac Disease, Pernicious Anemia, Lupus low calcium and everything comes out negative, everything.
I have strange symptoms that don’t seem to fit hypothyroidism, exactly, but could fit low T3 or low Dopamine. They are: poor balance, tingling in face, lips, and hands. In addition to the typical ones for hypothyroidism. I also am experiencing rather extreme jolts as I sleep, as if I am having a seizure and strange sensations in my legs, mostly left leg.
So far, my doctors have no explanation. My endocrinologist agreed to put me on a very low dose of thyroid replacement. My neurologist thinks I would be helped with antidepressants. I have had one MRI to rule out MS and am having another to rule out further diagnosis of MS and may have a spinal tap to rule out any odd infections of the brain. I have symptoms of Parkinson’s, or rather, low dopamine.
So, my next Dr. visit is with a Rheumatologist. I have also seen an alternative Dr. and am awaiting test results. He said it looked like MS and also thyroid issues. He feels, like me, that we are just missing one important piece of information. We are both hoping it is the Free T3.
Any suggestions?