Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and its implications in health

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a common form of lupus. Lupus is an auto-immune disorder whereby the body destroys healthy cells and tissues present in the body. When this continues, it eventually leads to swelling and damage of body tissues in the joints, kidneys, lungs, blood vessels and or brain. Lupus is also regarded as a rheumatic disorder due to the pains, aches and stiffness cause by it in the, muscles, joints and bones. (University of Maryland Medical Centre, 2006)
Lupus usually affects those between the ages of 15 - 45 years, and 90% of SLE cases occur in women of childbearing age.
People with lupus usually show signs and symptoms such as extreme fatigue, arthiritis, muscle cramps, pain and stiffness, skin rashes that include the ‘butterfly’ rash on the nose and near the cheek areas, nausea, seizures and photosensitivity. (University of Maryland Medical Centre, 2006)
Researchers have also observed that those diagnosed with SLE appear to have more food allergies than healthy people as well as those with other types of auto-immune disorders. Another study that was conducted suggests that beef and dairy foods increase allergic reactions in people with SLE due to the milk protein casein which has immune-stimulating properties. This explains why those with SLE have a higher intolerance to milk products. (Health monthly, 2006)
It is also reported that there is a higher possibility of getting SLE in smokers and that people with SLE have lower antioxidants level as compared to healthy individuals. (Health monthly, 2006)
Reference: University of Maryland Medical Centre, (2008). Systemic lupus erythematosus. Retrieved on 1 February 2009 from the website, http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/systemic-lupus-000161.htm

Reference: Health Monthly: Your Guide to Healthy Living, (2006). Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Retrieved on 1 February 2009 from the website, http://www.healthmonthly.co.uk/health/health-concerns/lupus.html

By: Sharmila