Treatment Options that Have Proven to be Effective
Lupus, like many other autoimmune diseases, has no known cure. However, physicians have developed treatments that lessen the disease’s severity and promises a normal lifespan. However, treatment largely depends on the symptoms, and it often changes as different symptoms come and go.
Specialists Involved
Lupus is often treated by rheumatologists specializing in inflammation. However, symptoms may necessitate the input of clinical immunologists, neurologists, dermatologists, psychologists, and hematologists.
Drugs Used to Treat Lupus
There is a wide range of drugs used to treat Lupus. The most common drugs used for treatment are corticosteroids that include hydrocortisone, prednisone, and dexamethasone. These drugs are effective in suppressing inflammation, which is responsible for the pain and hair loss. These drugs may also be complemented with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen and ibuprofen. However, these drugs come with some side-effects including increased appetite, weight gain, and cataracts.
Antimalarial drugs are also effective as they work inside the cells to suppress fatigue, inflammation, skin rashes, and joint pain. These drugs are especially popular for their ability to prevent flare-ups; however, this only works with continuous treatment.
Immunosuppressive drugs may also be used if the condition affects the central nervous system and/or kidneys. The common immunosuppressive drugs used include mycophenolate mofetil and cyclophosphamide. These drugs work by blocking the production of immune cells, and consequently restraining the overactive immune system.
Supplements Used to Treat Lupus
Certain vitamins, minerals, and Lupus supplements have also proven to be effective in treating lupus. In particular, physicians recommend multivitamins and multi-mineral supplements with a certain dosage of anti-oxidants; these are effective for suppressing inflammation. Other common Lupus supplements include Omega-3 fatty acids, which are also effective against inflammation. Other common types of supplements effective against Lupus include flaxseed, DHEA, copper, turmeric, and astragalus.
These supplements are easily available over-the-counter and even online. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor before using Lupus supplements.
Lifestyle Remedies
Lupus can be emotionally as well as physically strenuous. Consequently, suppressing it takes a mental, physical, and emotional effort in addition to medication.
Most importantly, patients are asked to focus on important things in their life. For starters, spending time with family and friends helps to overcome the emotional struggle. Additionally, exercising helps fight depression and reduce chances of a heart attack. Finally, a healthy diet strengthens the body’s immune system and improves the body’s general health.
Patients are also asked to rest adequately to overcome the fatigue and numb the pain. They are also cautioned against unhealthy habits such as drinking and smoking as they only serve to worsen the condition.