Is Lupus Contagious? Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects approximately 1.5 million Americans. It is important to address the misconception that lupus is contagious, as it’s not true. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the body. The exact cause of systemic lupus erythematosus is still unknown, but it is not transmitted from person to person like a contagious illness. Key Takeaways: …
Does Lupus Cause Brain Lesions?
Does Lupus Cause Brain Lesions? Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune disease that can affect various organs in the body. When it affects the brain, it is referred to as neuropsychiatric lupus or neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). NPSLE is a serious manifestation of lupus and can present with a range of symptoms, including headaches, “brain fog,” mood disorders, strokes, seizures, and confusion. The exact cause of neuropsychiatric lupus is not …
Difference Between Lyme Disease and Lupus
Difference Between Lyme Disease and Lupus Lyme disease and lupus are two distinct medical conditions that can have overlapping symptoms, causing confusion in diagnosis. While both are autoimmune diseases, the difference lies in their origins. Lyme disease is caused by an infectious agent, specifically the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through tick bites. On the other hand, lupus is a systemic autoimmune disease that affects collagen, a protein found in connective tissue, …
Does Lupus Affect The Liver?
For individuals grappling with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the complexities of managing this autoimmune disease extend beyond its more commonly discussed symptoms. Beyond the skin rashes and joint pain often associated with lupus, patients and healthcare providers must pay close attention to organ systems that can silently bear the brunt of autoimmune turmoil. Among these, liver function merits specific scrutiny, as lupus can exert subtle yet …
How to Beat Lupus Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom experienced by individuals with lupus. Research estimates that almost 100% of people living with lupus will experience fatigue at some point in the disease. Lupus fatigue is characterized by an overwhelming, sustained sense of exhaustion and decreased capacity for mental and physical work. It can be more bothersome than pain for many patients. There are …
Understanding Lupus and Kidneys: An Informative Guide
Lupus nephritis is a type of kidney disease caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus). It is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own cells and organs. Lupus nephritis can worsen over time and lead to kidney failure. It is more commonly found in women, especially those of African or Asian background. Kidney damage is …
What Are The Symptoms of Lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, and more. It is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management and care. The symptoms of Lupus can vary from person to person, and they may come and go in episodes or flares. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and …