Does the painful rash on your body worry you? If your answer is yes, read on to find how you can manage the rash. This article delves into lupus signs to watch out for and how and where to seek treatment. Specialists in lupus in Tampa offer effective remedies that you need to know when deciding to seek treatment at the Osteoporosis and Rheumatology Center.
What Is Lupus?
When most people say lupus, they refer to systemic erythematosus (SLE); however, manifests in your body in different kinds. It is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in your tissues. Lupus occurs when your immune system reacts adversely with your body tissues. There are four types of lupus, cutaneous, neonatal, drug-induced, and SLE. SLE is the most prevalent among many individuals.
Lupus Diagnosis
Lupus symptoms masquerade as skin cancer signs, and in severe lupus cases, the signs pose as arthritis. The unclear symptoms make the diagnosis taxing.
The Osteoporosis and Rheumatology center employs blood and imaging tests to establish whether you have lupus. In addition to primary physical examination, the doctor may request a tissue biopsy and a urine test to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Depending on the severity and manifestations of lupus in your body, you have various treatment options.
Treatment Options for Lupus
Lupus treatment focuses on minimizing disease activity, addressing comorbidities, and minimizing the side effects of medications. The treatment options range from mild therapy to intense therapy and involve medication and lifestyle adjustments.
However, Rheumatologists at Osteoporosis and Rheumatology Center of Tampa Bay recommend regular visits to switch your treatment plans. It is changes over time, and it is crucial to keep up to date with the latest manifestation of the disease.
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Medication
Medication is the primary treatment for advanced those Common medications for lupus include:
- Immunosuppressants- These are drugs that suppress the immune system hence preventing negative reactions to your tissues. Some immunosuppressants include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and azathioprine.
- Corticosteroids- Prednisone and other corticosteroids calm the immune system and soothe pain and swelling. There are injectable corticosteroids as well as topical creams.
- Biologics- These are chemical compounds that mimic antibodies that block proteins that evoke an immune reaction.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)- Include over-the-counter medication such as Ibuprofen that reduces swelling and pain.
Some of the medications above have side effects you need to know about before taking them. Consult a qualified clinician to understand the side effects of each drug.
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Diet Change
Some foods trigger an immune reaction. Alfalfa and garlic are some foods that trigger lupus flare-ups. However, there is no special diet for lupus. Include a well-balanced nutritious meal in your diet plan and avoid it triggers. Fruits and vitamins high in vitamins and antioxidants ease lupus symptoms.
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Limited Sun Exposure
The sun is not your friend if you have lupus. Sun rays, halogen, and fluorescent light cause lupus flare-ups. Wear protective sun gear if you have to expose yourself to the sun.
Currently, there is no cure for it; however, there are numerous biological researches underway in using biological techniques to manage lupus more efficiently. The managing tips above have proven efficacy in treating lupus.
To learn more about lupus treatment and how you can better your health if you have this, contact Jeffrey Miller, MD, at the Osteoporosis and Rheumatology Center in Tampa Bay.
