Lupus

Discoid Lupus and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Discoid Lupus affects only the skin, whereas Systemic Lupus can involve the joints and internal organs as well. Otherwise the two types of Lupus will not be differentiated on this page.

Lupus is often described as an auto-immune diease. The Immune System for some reason attacks the body – antibodies, which usually fight off bacteria and viruses, instead attack otherwise healthy tissue. This causes inflammation, pain and swelling of the affected area. People with lupus can live normal lives, while taking precautions and controlling the disease through proper treatment – however, if it starts attacking internal organs, the condition can become serious and very difficult to cope with.

It is a chronic disease (meaning it lasts for a long time) but different symptoms may come and go with time. The condition can also ease for a period of time before coming back, the period of easing is called a remission. 10 times more women get this condition than men, and it is generally diagnosed between 15-45, though it can affect children and older people. Lupus in NZ is also 3-4 times more common among Maori and Pacific Islanders.

Primary symptoms

The first symptoms of lupus are very vague and are often like having the flu all the time. It usually starts with joint pains, especially in the small joints of the hands and feet, and may “flit” from one set of joints to another quite quickly. Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms.

Secondary symptoms

Other symptoms may include:

• skin rashes 
• fever
• headaches
• recurring mouth ulcers
• depression 
• hair loss
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Inflammation and swelling

Diagnosis is usually reached by looking for skin rashes, and checking for joint and gland sensitivity, and doing tests to look for inflammation and whether internal organs have become involved. Again, symptoms can vary hugely from person to person. Treatment can range from anti-inflammatory drugs varying from aspirin all the way to steroids. Immunosuppressants are only used when other drugs have failed to control the disease, as they shut down the bodies immune system and leave it open to other attack.
For help with Lupus in New Zealand, please contact the Lupus Organisation HERE