World Lupus Day is celebrated on 10 May each year, and May is recognised as Lupus Awareness Month. Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy tissues and organs. Also known as “the great imitator,” its symptoms can resemble or mimic other conditions and diseases. Lupus causes tissue damage and widespread inflammation in the organs it affects.

Although lupus is most common in women, people of all ages and genders can be affected. Millions of people are impacted by lupus worldwide, but there are still misconceptions that can create pain, isolation, and sadness for those affected.

What are some typical lupus symptoms?

Since lupus can affect many different organs and systems of the body, its symptoms can vary with each person. However, most people with lupus might experience joint pain, fatigue, rash, chest discomfort, or a swollen leg. Some symptoms can become more intense after sun exposure.

Are there different types of lupus?

The most common types of lupus include systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), cutaneous lupus, drug-induced lupus, and neonatal lupus.

Systemic lupus: SLE is the most typical and severe type of lupus and can be life-threatening. It is also incurable, but medical treatments and lifestyle changes can help control it. SLE can affect the lungs, blood vessels, kidneys, brain, skin, and joints.

Cutaneous lupus: Also known as ‘skin lupus,’ it is a long-term disease in which the immune system attacks the skin. Someone affected might have hair loss, body sores, pigment changes, and rashes. There is no cure, but medicines and lifestyle changes, like limiting sun exposure, can help control it.

Drug-induced lupus: Drug-induced lupus is caused by an overreaction to certain medications. This form of the illness has symptoms like those of SLE. Symptoms might occur three to six months after starting a medication. However, the condition disappears once the medicine is stopped.

Neonatal lupus: This is a rare form of lupus that occurs when a developing baby is exposed to lupus in the womb. It can cause serious health problems, including congenital heart block, which can be fatal. Neonatal lupus symptoms can be treated at or before birth. It typically goes away by the age of six months.

Quick facts:

• Lupus can range from mild to life-threatening and must always be treated by a doctor.
• With good medical care, most people with lupus can live full lives.
• Lupus is not contagious or related to HIV or cancer.

If you or someone you know is affected by this illness, you can use our Yellow Pages or www.findyello.com to find doctors to help manage the disease.

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Sources: CDC, Yale Medicine, World Lupus Day, and Lupus Foundation of America.