Q:
What is systemic lupus erythematosus?
A:
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a more serious type of lupus. Because in addition to skin, it affects other vital organs, and can cause a raised, scaly, butterfly-shaped rash.
Symptoms can vary and can change over time. Common ones include:
- severe fatigue
- joint pain
- joint swelling
- headaches
- a rash on the cheeks and nose, shaped like a butterfly
- hair loss
- anemia
- blood-clotting problems
- fingers turning white or blue and tingling when cold
The exact cause of SLE isn’t known, but there are some factors that may trigger the systems.
- genetics: people with lupus often have family members with other autoimmune conditions.
- environment: triggers such as ultraviolet rays, certain medications, viruses, physical or emotional stress, trauma.
- sex and hormones: women patients are more common than men patients, especially during their childbearing year.
When left untreated, over time, SLE can damage or cause complications in systems throughout your body. So once you suspect yourself are affected, call your doctor and make a diagnosis as soon as possible.
Keywords: systemic lupus symptoms, systemic lupus, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic lupus erythematosus+, lupus erythematosus
