Lupus is a condition that causes the body’s immune system to begin attacking healthy organs and tissue. The condition can cause a wide range of health problems, such as weakening joints, interfering with the function of kidneys, and even impairing the ability of the lungs and the heart to work properly. Because there are varying degrees of this autoimmune disorder, the best lupus treatment is usually determined by a qualified physician after thorough a thorough examination and tests.
Lupus symptoms play a significant role in helping the healthcare professional determine what course of treatment is likely to be in the best interests of the patient. There are several ways of dealing with the autoimmune disease, including the use of medication. This may include the use of drugs that suppress the activity of the immune system. While this solution does help to minimize the deterioration of various systems around the body, drugs of this type do make the patient more susceptible to other illnesses that come about due to exposure to bacteria. Immune system suppression medication can also have an adverse impact on the liver and may lead to infertility.
Another approach to lupus treatment involves the use of corticosteroids to bring the condition under control. Today, it is possible to administer the corticosteroids intravenously or orally. While medication of this type is very effective in containing the progression of lupus, there are a number of side effects that may develop over time. High blood pressure is one of the more common problems associated with prolonged use of corticosteroids, along with mood swings that may be hard to manage. As with other drugs, there is also an increased chance of infection due to the suppression of the immune system activity.
A more recent lupus treatment involves the use to stem cells to rebuild the immune system. With this approach, the body’s natural defenses are essentially rendered completely useless by the administration of specific drugs. The stem cells are generated by using drugs to secrete the cells from bone marrow and into the bloodstream. At that point, the blood is harvested and frozen for use at a later date. Once the immune system is rendered inoperable, the stem cells are reintroduced into the body and used to revive and restore the system to proper working order.
Whatever the nature of the lupus treatment, patients are encouraged to make lifestyle changes that will promote general well being. This includes eliminating tobacco use altogether, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of rest at night. These simple steps will go a long way toward keeping the patient healthy while the lupus treatment progresses, and hopefully produces the desired result.
