World Lupus Day Being Recognized Today

World Lupus Day is being recognized today [May 10] with a theme of “make Lupus visible.”

A spokesperson said, “The intent is to increase public awareness about Lupus. Gather support for the more than 5 million people affected by this global condition. The campaign’s focus is urging the World Health Association to consider Lupus as one of the international health priorities.

What is Lupus?

“Systemic Lupus Erythmatosus [SLE], commonly called Lupus – Latin for wolf – with Erythematosus meaning redness. It’s a severe and life-changing autoimmune disease that can potentially become fatal. Most organs and other parts of the body can be affected, including the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys and skin.

“A healthy immune system produces antibodies which attack and destroy foreign and invasive cells like viruses, bacteria and germs.

“In people with this chronic autoimmune disease, the immune system creates auto antibodies which destroys healthy tissue. The immune system is unable to recognize the difference between healthy cells in the body and the foreign cells it fights to remove.

What is the mask of lupus?

“Acute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus [ACLE]. ‘Butterfly rash,’ referring to the unique butterfly-like shape. ACLE is the most common skin manifestation of Lupus and is often referred to as the ‘lupus mask’ due to its distinctive shape mostly on the face.

“Lupus affects anyone and is typically diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 44 years. However females are more affected than males, mainly due to increased production of oestrogen hormones, as oestrogens are known immune system modulators; they influence cytokine production and play a role in the Lupus pathogenesis.

Diagnosis & Symptoms:

“It has been called ‘The great imitator’ because its symptoms can mimic other more common diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. No two people have all the same symptoms which may evolve over a period of months or even years. Some common symptoms are: extreme fatigue, joint pain, muscle aches, anemia, hair loss, eye problems, depression, mouth ulcers, facial or other rashes.

“Eventually resulting in the destruction of vital organs such as the kidneys, heart brain and lungs. At times no visible symptoms; nor a facial butterfly rash.

What are the four types of Lupus?

• Systemic lupus erythematosus [SLE] is the most common and most serious type of lupus.
• Cutaneous lupus erythematosus, which affects only the skin.
• Drug-induced lupus, a short-term type of lupus caused by certain medicines.
• Neonatal lupus, a rare type of lupus that affects newborn babies.

Why is purple the colour for lupus?

“Purple is a combination of red and blue — the colour red represents passion/motivation and the colour blue evokes a sense of calmness. Thus, purple is the colour for lupus as it is the perfect blend of colors that represent the characteristics required to fight lupus.

Statistics

“Studies estimate at least 50 million people suffer globally from Lupus. About 34 million [68%] are affected with SLE. Little is known about the illness according to a global survey conducted in 2016:

Treatment & Living with Lupus:

“The disease can usually be controlled well by early detection, careful medication attention will assist in subsiding symptoms. This will also reduce risk of organ damage. Quality nutrition and adequate sleep are important to maintain good physical and mental health. Take medications, multivitamins and follow the instructions of your health care provider.

“Quitting the consumption of alcohol and cigarettes are highly recommended. Keep positive, get exercise when possible. There are periods of ‘flare ups’ when the disease is active and periods of remission [dormant]. Encouragement from family, friends and employers are important as patients cope with this long-term illness.

“During the summer months Lupus patients should avoid prolong exposure to the sun. It is recommended to wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses or carry an umbrella; damp winter months in Bermuda can cause acute joint pain.”

#Health

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