Lupus arthritis, like rheumatoid, refers to an autoimmune ailment that can adversely affect several organs. It is mainly characterized by formation of butterfly-like skin rash which is also known as the “malar rash“. Lupus is linked with the formation of unusual antibodies that falsely identify the tissues as well as cells as alien attackers. In order to protect the body, the immune system attacks these cells and tissues. Due to this assault, the disorder can attack any body part like the joints, skin, and blood cells as well as the inner organs such as lungs, kidneys, and the heart.

If the skin is affected, then the disease is called discoid lupus, while if the internal organs are influenced, it is referred to as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). This can even affect newborns, so anybody can be affected by it. We will now look at the causes and symptoms of this disorder.

Causes

The precise cause of lupus arthritis is not clear. However, it is known that the growth is carried out by many environmental and heredity reasons. It is said that a few people are genetically inclined to such disorders. As per the scientists, if folks having lupus witness environmental factors such as certain drugs, stress, and ultraviolet radiation; their immune system can be stimulated by these triggers. Also, lupus arthritis is seen more prevalent in females than males. By caste and race, lupus is more seen in Asian as well as African American people. Further, it has been seen that the symptoms in women aggravate just prior to their menses onset making one realize that hormones can induce lupus symptoms.

Symptoms

As the disease can make an impact on any body part, the signs of lupus arthritis tend to differ from one individual to another. In addition, the signs might hit you suddenly or slowly and usually subside in some time followed by reappearance. How intense these signs can be, depends on the organ or part affected. Listed are the common lupus arthritis signs.

• Malar rash mostly on the bridge of the nose or cheeks
• Mysterious and too much fatigue
• Pain
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Kidney or urinary tract infections
• Ulcers or sores in nose or mouth
• High sensitivity to the light of sun
• Gland swelling
• Fever
• Hair loss
• Bruising
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Raynaud’s syndrome – toes and fingers become blue or white during winter
• Anxiety and depression
• Chest pain
• Breath shortness
• Inflammation as well as fluid accumulation in lungs and heart
• Neurological issues – confusion, seizures, and convulsions

Diagnosis

To diagnose lupus arthritis, the tests and evaluations done are urine as well as blood tests, ESR (sediment rate) test, C-reaction protein test, X-ray, medical past examination, and antibody test.

Treatment

This aims at alleviating the signs of lupus arthritis and lessening the future episodes of outburst. The suitable treatment is decided as per the severity and the diseased organs. In case of mild inflammation, anti-inflammatory drugs are relief giver. To deal with the skin rashes, none other than corticosteroids can prove effective, but they come with many after effects. Corticosteroid lotions as well as creams are used for treating the rashes on the skin. However, if the case is severe, immunosuppressive medications to suppress the system of immune are needed.

Well, you need to just catch hold of an experienced rheumatologist so that a proper diagnosis and treatment are ensured. Then, you just have to keep your will power high and maintain a positive attitude, which are the preconditions for a successful treatment regime.

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