Red lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs and systems in the body. One of the systems that can be affected by SLE is the nervous system, leading to various neurological symptoms. In this blog post, we will explore red lupus and the nervous system.
What is red lupus?
Red lupus, or SLE, is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues and organs. SLE can affect different parts of the body, such as the skin, joints, kidneys, and nervous system. SLE is more common in women than men and usually develops between the ages of 15 and 44.
What are the general symptoms of SLE?
SLE is a chronic condition, and its symptoms can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms of SLE include:
Fatigue
Joint pain and swelling
Skin rashes, such as the butterfly rash on the face
Hair loss
Mouth sores
Sensitivity to sunlight
Raynaud’s phenomenon (fingers and toes turn white or blue in response to cold or stress)
How does SLE affect the nervous system?
The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves throughout the body. SLE can affect any part of the nervous system, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some common neurological symptoms of SLE include:
Headaches
Seizures
Cognitive dysfunction (difficulty with memory and concentration)
Psychosis (loss of contact with reality)
Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands or feet)
Cranial neuropathy (loss of function of one or more of the cranial nerves, which control the face, eyes, and mouth)
Myelopathy (spinal cord damage resulting in weakness, numbness, or paralysis)
How is red lupus with nervous system involvement diagnosed?
The diagnosis of red lupus with nervous system involvement is based on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Your doctor will perform a thorough neurological exam and may order tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electromyography (EMG), or nerve conduction studies to evaluate nerve function. They may also perform a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to evaluate the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
What is the treatment for red lupus with nervous system involvement?
The treatment for red lupus with nervous system involvement depends on the severity of the symptoms and the organs involved. Treatment usually involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Medications may include:
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to reduce inflammation
Immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine or mycophenolate, to suppress the immune system
Antimalarials, such as hydroxychloroquine, to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), which is a protein extracted from human blood that can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
Lifestyle changes may include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, getting enough rest, and avoiding triggers that can cause flare-ups, such as stress and sun exposure.
In conclusion, red lupus, or SLE, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and systems in the body, including the nervous system. Neurological symptoms of SLE can range from mild to severe, and treatment usually involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. If you experience any neurological symptoms, it is important to speak with your
