A person in their mid-30s sitting at a desk, looking through medical records and paperwork. They have a concerned look on their face as they fill out an application for Lupus disability benefits. On the desk, there are various medical bills, a laptop, and a pen. The background is muted and neutral-toned.

Is Lupus A Disability?

Is Lupus A Disability? The question of whether lupus is recognized as a disability is crucial for the millions affected by this chronic conditionLupus is an autoimmune disease In the United States, systemic lupus erythematosus is indeed seen as a disability under certain circumstances. The Social Security Administration approves benefits to people with lupus and cannot work. (SSA) offers disability benefits for those whose conditions are severe enough …

An image showing the progression of Lupus over time

Understanding Stages of Lupus – A Guide

Understanding Stages of Lupus – A Guide As someone who’s navigated the uncertain waters of lupus, I’ve learned the importance of education and early detection. Systemic lupus erythematosus stages range from mild symptoms to more severe cases, making lupus progression a tailored, individual experience that fluctuates with time. When I first noticed the early signs of lupus on my skin and experienced unusual fatigue, it became …

Hairbrush from a woman with lupus

Understanding Lupus and Hair Loss: Causes & Care

Understanding Lupus and Hair Loss: Causes & Care As someone navigating the unpredictable waters of an autoimmune disease, I’m all too familiar with the distressing symptom of hair loss that comes with lupus, a chronic condition known medically as systemic lupus erythematosus. Countless others who are also grappling with lupus can attest to the emotional toll it takes—witnessing the transformation of healthy hair …

A woman with lupus feeling self-conscious about her body odor.

Does Lupus Make You Smell Bad?

Does Lupus Make You Smell Bad? Engaging in day-to-day activities while living with lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), presents its unique challenges due to varied lupus symptoms that can affect an individual’s quality of life. Among the many possible symptoms that individuals are curious about is the concern related to body odor. Can an autoimmune disease like lupus contribute to bad body odor? It’s a sensitive topic that intertwines …

A close-up view of the pancreas with a subtle lupus butterfly rash in the background. The pancreas appears inflamed and distorted, with red and yellow hues dominating the image. A shadowy figure looms in the background, hinting at the sinister nature of this disease.

Can Lupus Cause Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas, is a rare complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). While it is uncommon, there have been reported cases of pancreatitis in patients with SLE. This condition, known as lupus-associated pancreatitis, can occur as an initial manifestation of SLE or during the course of the disease. It is characterized by abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzyme levels. The exact cause of lupus-associated pancreatitis is …

Abstract depiction of lupus cells and cancer cells overlapping

Is Lupus A Cancer?

When discussing conditions that affect the human body in profound ways, systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly known as lupus, often surfaces amidst concerns and misconceptions. A prevalent question that arises is the relationship between lupus and cancer. Although lupus echoes the severity of a health threat that cancer represents, it stands as a distinct autoimmune disease, not a malignancy. Unlike cancer’s characteristic uncontrolled cell …

A purple lupus ribbon with a dna helix

Is Lupus Hereditary?

Is Lupus Hereditary? Grasping the complex nature of lupus, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), starts with understanding its underlying causes. As a chronic autoimmune disease, lupus unfolds in various forms, frequently leaving those affected and their loved ones questioning, “is lupus hereditary?“ Through analysis of the genetics of lupus, researchers recognize that while it is not inherited in a simple Mendelian pattern, a family history may indeed elevate the risk …

A person sitting on a stomach with a vague outline of intestines in the background. The person appears to be in discomfort and clutches their gut.

Lupus and IBS – Does Lupus Affect the Gastrointestinal Tract?

Lupus and IBS – Does Lupus Affect the Gastrointestinal Tract? For many grappling with lupus, an autoimmune disease, the battle extends far beyond the typical manifestations of joint pain and fatigue. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), known for its unpredictable path into various bodily systems, frequently has profound implications for the digestive system. The gastrointestinal tract—a complex group of organs that spans from your mouth …

What is the ribbon color for lupus?

What is the ribbon color for lupus? The ribbon color for lupus awareness is purple. People use this color to show support for individuals living with lupus and to raise awareness about the disease. The purple ribbon has become a symbol of hope and solidarity within the lupus community. Key Takeaways: Introduction The lupus ribbon is colored purple as a symbol of awareness and …

Can Men Get Lupus?

Can Men Get Lupus? Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect anyone, regardless of gender. Although it is often associated with women, men can also develop lupus. Research suggests that approximately 1 in 10 people with lupus are male. Men with systemic lupus erythematosus may experience similar symptoms as women, but certain manifestations of the disease tend to be more severe in men. Some common symptoms of …