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Lupus is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that damages different organs, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and brain. The damage happens because the germ-fighting immune system attacks the body's own cells. This is called autoimmunity.
Medicine can help with symptoms and lower the risk of flares (or flare-ups), which are times when symptoms get worse.
Signs and symptoms of lupus (LOOP-iss) can vary from person to person, but may include:
Most people with lupus are women in their late teens to forties.
There are three kinds of lupus:
People can develop lupus for one or more of these reasons:
Doctors diagnose lupus by asking about symptoms and doing an exam. They'll also do blood tests to look for:
Diagnosing lupus can be hard because it can affect almost any organ in the body, and symptoms vary widely from patient to patient.
Treatment for lupus depends on the organs involved. There is no cure for it, but treatment can help control symptoms. Often, a patient with lupus has a health care team with specialists such as:
Medicines can help lower the risk of flares and improve symptoms. Someone with lupus may take:
Doctors may also recommend that people with lupus:
Lupus is a chronic disease, but treatments can help with symptoms and lower the risk of flares. New and better tools to diagnose and treat lupus have improved the lives of those living with the disease.
To help your child manage:
It also helps to learn all you can about lupus with your child. The care team is a great resource. You also can find information and support online at:
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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