Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks normal, healthy tissue. There are several types of lupus, but the most common and referred to is systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE.
1.5 to 2 million Americans have some form of lupus, with 16,000 new cases reported annually. The prevalence of lupus is about 40 cases per 100,000 persons. Women are diagnosed 9 times more often than men, usually between the ages of 15 and 45.
Although the cause is unknown, most believe that lupus results from both generic environmental stimuli. Environmental factors that have been known to cause lupus include extreme stress, exposure to ultraviolet light, smoking, medications and antibiotics in the sulfa and penicillin groups, some infections, and chemical exposure to compounds such as trichloroethylene in well water and dust.
Lupus symptoms include things such as achy joints, swelling of hands and feet, fever, fatigue, skin lesions, rash, anemia, chest pain, light sensitivity, hair loss, blood clotting problems, seizures, mouth ulcers, weight loss or gain, dry eyes, bruising, anxiety, depression, headaches and memory loss. The symptoms can be treated with corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs and lifestyle changes.
Since no two cases of lupus are exactly alike, there is a wide range of symptoms that are known to affect many parts of the body. Sometimes symptoms develop slowly or appear suddenly; they can be mild, severe, temporary, or permanent. Most people with lupus experience symptoms in only a few organs, but more serious cases can lead to problems with kidneys, the heart, the lungs, blood, or the nervous systems.
There is currently no cure for lupus.
About Cleansing Water, Inc.
Cleansing Water, Inc. is a Warrenton, Virginia home health care agency offering professional geriatric care and serving seniors, individuals recovering from surgery, individuals with long-term disabilities, and other clients throughout Fauquier, Culpeper, Gainesville, Haymarket, Middleburg, Prince William, Rappahannock and other Piedmont Virginia communities. We provide in-home companions, certified nursing assistants, and geriatric care managers to assist with the tasks of daily living, monitor health and medications, and ensure clients are well cared for, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
For more information about Cleansing Water’s short-term and long-term home health care services, Call (540) 341-0212 or our toll-free number, (866) 294-4665, to schedule a consultation and discuss your geriatric care and home health care options. You can also visit CleansingWater.com for more information.