Lupus complications affect different body organs. Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the immune system becoming hyperactive and attacking the normal healthy cells and tissues of the body.
The primary symptom of lupus SLE is inflammation which can affect the joints, kidney, brain, blood, lungs, joints, pancreas, heart and the central nervous system.
Medicines to really cure lupus have not been discovered yet although pain relievers and anti-inflammatory pills can help control SLE. If you have lupus, then you need to take care of yourself and avoid any lupus complications.
Kidney
Lupus can be fatal if it will result to kidney failure. If lupus is uncontrolled, the kidneys may become damaged. Watch out for any sign or symptoms of kidney trouble such as chest pain, nausea, vomiting, edema (leg swelling) and itching all over the body.
Central Nervous System
Lupus can affect the brain, too. Lupus patients can have memory problems and may be unable to express their thoughts easily as they used to do. Headaches, high fever, seizures, dizziness, behavior changes, hallucinations, psychosis or even stroke are some common signs that lupus has affected your brain or central nervous system.
Blood
Lupus affects the blood and blood vessels. Problems like anemia and high risk of bleeding or blood clotting may arise as lupus complication. Inflammation of the blood vessels or vasculitis also results from SLE.
Lungs
Because lupus is systemic, it can also lead to inflamed chest cavity linings called pleurisy. The sign of lungs complication of lupus is difficulty in breathing.
Heart
The heart muscles, arteries or heart membrane can get swollen if you have lupus. This is the reason why lupus patients are at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease and increased chances of heart attack.
Pancreas
Pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas is a serious lupus complication. Signs and symptoms include quick, intense pain at the belly button to the back, nausea, vomiting and fever. Pancreatitis must be treated immediately.
Joints
The first sign of lupus complications manifest in the joints area. This is called lupus arthritis. Although tolerable than rheumatoid arthritis, lupus can cause pain, stiffness, soreness, and swelling of joints in the fingers, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles and shoulders.
Bones
Avascular necrosis or bone tissue death can result from lupus disorder. When the blood supply to a bone is low, it results to bone break and bone collapse. The bone most affected is the hipbone.
Lupus is a serious autoimmune disorder but if you know how to keep yourself healthy and happy, then you can manage your disease. Always consult your doctor or rheumatologist if you suspect any sign of lupus complications.