Lupus is... | Researching the Autoimmune Disease
Lupus is fatigue. Lupus is pain. It is a host of symptoms. But, when you dive deeper, what is lupus?
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Lupus is... Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Though there are other types, SLE is typically referred to as simply: lupus
Lupus is... an autoimmune disease
A properly functioning immune system identifies foreign substances and creates antibodies to fight off viruses, bacteria, and germs (like the flu).
With lupus, the immune system can't distinguish between foreign invaders and the body's healthy tissues -- so the immune system creates autoantibodies. These autoantibodies attack the body's healthy cells and tissues, breaking them down and causing inflammation
Lupus is... a chronic condition
The symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks.
The condition is not preventable with vaccines or curable with medications or treatments
Lupus is... cyclical
During flares, symptoms are more severe
During remission, symptoms improve and may seem to disappear
Lupus is... non-communicable
It is not contagious; you can't "catch" lupus from someone