What Causes Lupus?
There are certain factors that may contribute to a Lupus causes which include; viruses, environmental chemicals, and a person's genetic makeup.
Female hormones are also found to play a part in the development of Lupus. This is especially true during a womans child-bearing years, as hormone levels are at their all-time high.
With an observation that 10% of all Lupus patients, have a relative that suffers from the disease, lets us know that there may be a slight tendency of Lupus being an inherited disease. However, this information DOES NOT mean that a diagnosis can be predicted.
Who is affected by Lupus?
Lupus can affect men AND women of any age, or race. (1) in (2000) people in the United States suffers from Lupus. People of African, Asian, and Native American descent are more likely to develop the disease.
If only women of childbearing (14-45 years old), are considered, (1) in (250) may develop Lupus in their lifetime. This suggests that there is a possible role for female hormone levels to influence the vulnerability of the disease.
How is Lupus diagnosed?
The diagnosis of Lupus is best made by an experienced physician who understands Lupus, and the different diseases and conditions that may mimic it. The overall diagnosis is made when a patient has several of the listed symptoms, findings on examination, and blood abnormalities. It is best, that during a Lupus diagnosis, the patient refers to a {Rheumatologist} for confirmation of diagnosis.
How is Lupus treated?
The type of treatment will depend on several different factors, including a persons age, the type of medications they are currently on, their overall health, medical history, as well as location, and the severity of the disease.
Due to the fact that Lupus is a disease that can change over time, and is not always predictable, a critical part of health care is routine appointments with your rheumatologist.
What problems may Lupus patients develop?
Many patients with active Lupus, feel poorly in general and may complain of fever, weight loss, and fatigue. People who suffer from Lupus may also develop specific problems when the immune system attacks a certain organ(s), or other area(s) in the body.
Information found at: www.doctoroz.com
Have you heard of the theory that many people along a latitude line get lupus. I don't know if they have ever figured that one out yet.
ReplyDeleteSeattle Washington is on that line, and I have lupus and I was born in Kansas ~ but did not get lupus until I moved here. Then there is my friend from Kansas ~ She grew up in Canada along the sane latitude line as Seattle and she has it but not only that; many of her relatives in Canada have lupus. HHHHHHMMMMMMMMMM any truth to this????? latitude line theory????
Hi Terry.. I have actually never heard of that but it is a good theory. I should do some research on that tonight. Where was your friend from Kansas from in Canada? That is definitely a very strange theory.. I wonder if there is any truth to any of it.
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