What is Lupus? Part Deux!

There are so many unknowns when it comes to Lupus.  Unfortunately, one of those unknowns is what causes it.  We know what causes many cancers, heart disease and diabetes… but not lupus.

Lupus and other autoimmune diseases tend to run in families.  If one of your family members has lupus, you may have a greater tendency towards an autoimmune issue. Autoimmune diseases include multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, myasthenia gravis, scleroderma, polymyositis, vasculitis, Sjögren’s disease, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), type 1 (juvenile) diabetes, and Graves’ disease.   It is very important to know your family medical history and keep track of it, because early detection and treatment is important.  Share your information with the rest of your family members, and make sure they are aware of the possibility of autoimmune problems running in your family.

At this point, researchers think that genes do play a role, but they aren’t the only determining factor.  Your genes may determine that there is a greater chance for you to develop lupus but it takes a trigger to cause a FLARE.  A flare is when you have periods of time when you have lupus symptoms. Flares can be caused by stress, exposure to uv lights (especially in people that are photosensitive), smoking, and some medications.

So, what can someone do to try and avoid a flare?  Get physical rest, try to avoid stress, exercise, good nutrition, and staying away from uv light (especially direct sunlight). All of these are good for EVERYONE to do, but especially for people who may be genetically prone to an autoimmune disease.  And if you already HAVE lupus, trying to do all these should be ingrained in your brainz!

Make sure to contact your doctor whenever you get an infection, as they should be treated aggressively especially if you are in a flare.  Be sure to get your flu shot each year (as directed by your physician) and try to stay away from people with known fungal or viral infections.  When we are in high cold/ flu season, I try to avoid heavily populated areas (malls etc.) and wash my hands like a fiend no matter where I am.  It really stinks to get sick, but if it causes a flare? You are putting yourself at risk to make your Lupus worse.

And on that bright, fun note… 🙂  I am going to end here for now!  Thanks for reading and be sure to subscribe to my page over to the right there. –> Suggest my page to friends that know someone with an immune problem, or are just interested in healthy living.  Be sure to ‘Like’ my page on Facebook!!