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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), or Lupus, is a chronic or lifelong autoimmune disease.

The immune system normally protects the body from various invaders such as infections.

With an autoimmune disease, the immune system does not function properly and can attack various organs of the body as in the case of lupus.

According to the Lupus Foundation of Jamaica, there are many types of autoimmune diseases; however, lupus is considered one of the most serious because any organ or tissue in the body can be involved.

It is important to note that lupus is not cancer, nor is it a form of cancer. It is also not possible to “catch” lupus from someone else.

Who is at risk for developing lupus?

Anyone can develop lupus; however, lupus can occur more often in certain groups.

For example, lupus often first develops in younger persons, between the ages of 15 and 44 years.

Also, 90 per cent of those with lupus are female and certain ethnic groups such as Afro-Caribbean, Hispanic and some Asian and native groups are also at higher risk.

Common signs and symptoms of lupus

Research shows that there is no one known cause for lupus, but many factors such as genes, infections and other exposures, hormonal factors, UV light exposure and stress may interact over time, triggering the immune dysfunction that leads to symptoms of lupus.

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite: weight loss
• Aches and pains
• Swollen glands
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Depression
• Easy bruising
• Hair loss
• Edema/swelling

The following symptoms are more suggestive of Lupus:

• A rash over the cheeks and bridge of the nose
• Discoid Lupus lesions
• Developing rashes after exposure to the sun or ultraviolet light
• Ulcers (not sores or blisters) inside the mouth
• Arthritis of two or more joints, i.e., the joints hurt and are swollen
• Pleurisy – pain in the chest on deep breathing, not related to position or movement
• Seizure
• Anemia
• Raynaud’s -fingers turning white and/or blue in the cold
• Bald spots

Treating lupus

The Lupus Foundation of Jamaica, on its website, states that the treatment and control of Lupus has improved over the last decade, largely due to earlier diagnosis and increased understanding of the disease. 

It is important to note that the disease, however, still remains a threat to life, if the kidney or the brain become areas of major inflammation. 

Patients with renal disease should be tested to identify and quantify the extent of the inflammation and damage in these areas.

It is essential for the management of one’s lifestyle and daily activities as a lupus patient.

Lupus patients should never venture in the sun unprotected as the harsh UV light may activate their disease. 

They should maintain a balanced low-fat diet and ensure that they avoid stressful situations as these would vastly limit the recovering capacity of the body. 

Jamaica has one of the highest rates of lupus worldwide, with women and caregivers mostly affected.

An estimated 6,000 Jamaicans are believed to be affected by lupus. Eighty per cent of persons are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 44.

The disease is considered an important underlying cause of premature deaths, particularly among young people, with 22 years being the average age to receive a lupus diagnosis.