Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

 

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic, often life-long,

autoimmune disease that ranges from mild to severe and afflicts

mostly women. The primary characteristics of the disease are fatigue,

joint pain, and recurrent injuries in the vessels that course through

the body. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may affect widespread

sites, but it often manifests in the skin, joints, blood, and

kidneys. SLE was first described in 1828. Its name includes " lupus, "

from the Latin term for wolf, because the disease often produces a

rash that extends across the bridge of the nose and upper cheekbones

and was thought to resemble a wolf bite. The term erythematosus (from

the Greek word for red) refers to the color of the rash, and the term

systemic is used because the disease can affect organs and tissue

throughout the body.

 

Lupus is a chronic, often life-long, autoimmune disease that ranges

from mild to severe and afflicts mostly women. The primary

characteristics of the disease are fatigue, joint pain, and recurrent

injuries in the vessels that course through the body. Systemic lupus

erythematosus (SLE) may affect widespread sites, but it often

manifests in the skin, joints, blood, and kidneys. SLE was first

described in 1828. Its name includes " lupus, " from the Latin term for

wolf, because the disease often produces a rash that extends across

the bridge of the nose and upper cheekbones and was thought to

resemble a wolf bite.

 

The term erythematosus (from the Greek word for red) refers to the

color of the rash, and the term systemic is used because the disease

can affect organs and tissue throughout the body.

 

No treatment cures systemic lupus erythematosus, BUT many therapies

can suppress symptoms and relieve discomfort. Treatment of SLE varies

depending on the extent and severity of the disease. Milder

treatments are usually effective for symptoms such as fever,

arthritis, pleurisy, mild kidney involvement, inflammation of the

tissue surrounding the heart, headaches, and rash. More aggressive

treatment is needed if there is serious disease progression,

evidenced by the following: hemolytic anemia, low platelet count with

an accompanying rash (thrombocytopenic purpura), major involvement in

the lungs or heart, significant kidney damage, acute inflammation of

the small blood vessels in the extremities or gastrointestinal tract,

or severe central nervous system symptoms.

 

Consider this:

 

Patients have reported benefits from certain herbs, such as Essiac Tea

(used in tea and other preparations).

 

White Willow Bark is a good anti-inflamatory that works like aspirin

(it is an ingredient in aspirin) with out side effects to the stomach

or gastrointestinal tract.

 

Cultivating a healthy diet low in saturated fats and high in whole

grains and fresh vegetables and fruits is essential. Obtaining most

proteins from vegetables, particularly soy, and avoiding dairy and

meat products may help protect the kidneys. Patients should take

extra calcium and vitamin D, particularly if they are on

corticosteroids. Supplements of vitamins B12, B6, and folate may be

necessary, especially in people whose blood tests show high levels of

homocysteine. According to some studies, a diet rich in fruits and

vegetables can lower homocysteine levels.

 

Exercise is safe. Take it slow and at your own pace.

 

Certain Chinese herbal formulas and acupuncture have been very

effective in treating symptoms and regulating the immune system.

 

Studies on foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, including fish oil

and flax seed, have been showing benefits for SLE patients.

Researchers are also investigating compounds called indoles, also

known as mustard oil, which are found in broccoli, cabbage, Brussels

sprouts, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, collard and mustard greens,

rutabaga, turnips, and bok choy. Indoles stimulate enzymes that

convert estrogen to a more benign type. Eating vegetables certainly

will not cure SLE, but they offer many health benefits in general.

 

Patients should minimize their exposure to crowds or people with

contagious illnesses. Immunizations against influenza and

pneumococcal pneumonia are usually recommended, although flu shots

can cause flares. Careful dental hygiene is also important.

 

Simple preventative measures include avoiding overexposure to

ultraviolet rays and wearing protective clothing and sunblocks.

Allergy shots, which increase certain SLE antibodies, should be

avoided. In general, SLE patients should use only hypoallergenic

cosmetics or hair products.

 

Chronic stress has profound physical effects and influences the

progression of SLE. Patients should try to avoid undue emotional or

physical stress. Getting adequate rest of at least 8 hours and

possibly a nap during the day may be helpful. Maintaining social

relationships and healthy activities help prevent the depression and

anxiety associated with the disease.

 

Consider diffusing essential oils into the air such as Lavender,

Clary Sage or Chamomile when stressed.

 

Yoga breath exercises, deep breathing, makes a great difference in

any stressful situation.

 

 

Andrew Pacholyk L.Ac, MSTOM

Peacefulmind.com

Alternative medicine and therapies

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