What you need to know about the autoimmune disease

princess abumere

September 18, 2017 9:59 AM

Research shows that lupus is common in Africans most especially in women.

Selena Gomez revealing she has Lupus has lead to people searching for what exactly this disease is.

On September 15, 2017, the American pop star shared on Instagram she had recently had a kidney transplant because of this disease.

“I’m very aware some of my fans had noticed I was laying low for part of the summer and questioning why I wasn’t promoting my new music, which I was extremely proud of. So I found out I needed to get a kidney transplant due to my Lupus and was recovering. It was what I needed to do for my overall health,” she posted alongside an image of her on a hospital bed with actress Francia Raisa who donated her kidney to her.

American actor Nick Cannon and singer Toni Braxton have also been diagnosed with lupus.

Cases of Systemic lupus erythematosus

Here’s are some facts about lupus you should know:

What is it?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease.

In this condition, the immune system confuses the tissues of the body as foreign bodies and begins to attack them. Instead of keeping the body healthy.

Cause

The cause of lupus is still unknown. Research has put the cause of this disease as a conjunction of several factors including the immune system, hormones, genetics and even the environment. With regards to environmental antecedents, elements such as overexposure to sunlight can trigger the disease.

The disease however is not contagious.

Symptoms

The symptoms vary from person to person. While some people suffer severe symptoms, for some others, it’s mild. Some of the symptoms include seizures, joint aches, rashes, fatigue, hair loss, mouth sores and sensitivity to light. Besides the symptoms, people suffering from this disease can also be affected by outright ailments such as arthritis, kidney disease, blood clot and even heart disease.

How it affects women

Majority of people who suffer from lupus of women most commonly between the ages of 14 - 45 years-old. According to research, female hormones (estrogen) contribute to the presence of this disease in women.

Cure

Lupus has no cure. Yet it is treated and controlled based in the severity of each case. Drugs like steroids are used to treat the disease. Apart from medication, doctors also recommend a healthy lifestyle.

princess abumere