SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS
TREATMENTS |
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Treatment depends on the organ systems
affected by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and the severity of the disease. Some patients have
a mild form of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Their mild symptoms of inflammation can be
treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Motrin,
Advil) and aspirin. Severe skin rashes and joint problems may
respond to a group of medications usually used to treat malaria.
More severely ill patients with potentially life-threatening
complications (including kidney disease, pericarditis, or nervous
system complications) will require treatment with more potent drugs,
including steroid medications. Because steroids have serious side
effects, they are reserved for more severe cases of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Drugs that
decrease the activity of the immune system (called immunosuppressant
drugs) may also be used for severely ill Systemic Lupus Erythematosus patients. These include
azathioprine and cyclophosphamide.
Other treatments for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus try to help specific symptoms. Clotting
disorders will require blood thinners. Psychotic disorders will
require specific medications. Kidney failure may require the blood
to be cleaned outside the body through a machine (dialysis) or even
a kidney transplantation.
Alternative treatment
A number of alternative treatments have been suggested to help
reduce the symptoms of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. These include acupuncture and massage
for relieving the pain of sore joints and muscles. Stress management
is key for people with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and such techniques as meditation,
hynotherapy, and yoga may be helpful in promoting relaxation.
Dietary suggestions include eating a whole foods diet with reduced
amounts of red meat and dairy products in order to decrease pain and
inflammation. Food allergies are believed either to contribute to
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or the arise as a consequence of the digestive difficulties.
Wheat, dairy products, and soy are the major offenders. An
elimination/challenge diet can help identify the offending foods so
that they can be avoided. Another dietary measure that may be
beneficial is eating more fish that contain omega-3 fatty acids,
like mackerel, sardines, and salmon. Because alfalfa sprouts have
been associated with the onset of flares in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, they should be
avoided. Supplements that have been suggested to improve the health
of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus patients include vitamins B, C, and E, as well as selenium,
zinc, magnesium, and a complete trace mineral supplement. Vitamin A
is believed to help improve discoid skin rashes. Botanical medicine
can help the entire body through immune modulation and
detoxification, as well as assisting individual organs and systems.
Homeopathy and flower essences can work deeply on the emotional
level to help people with this difficult disease. |
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