Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

 

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic, often life-long,

autoimmune disease that ranges from mild to severe and afflicts

mostly women. The primary characteristics of the disease are

fatigue, joint pain, and recurrent injuries in the vessels that

course through the body. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may

affect widespread sites, but it often manifests in the skin, joints,

blood, and kidneys. SLE was first described in 1828. Its name

includes " lupus, " from the Latin term for wolf, because the disease

often produces a rash that extends across the bridge of the nose and

upper cheekbones and was thought to resemble a wolf bite. The term

erythematosus (from the Greek word for red) refers to the color of

the rash, and the term systemic is used because the disease can

affect organs and tissue throughout the body.

 

Lupus is a chronic, often life-long, autoimmune disease that ranges

from mild to severe and afflicts mostly women. The primary

characteristics of the disease are fatigue, joint pain, and

recurrent injuries in the vessels that course through the body.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may affect widespread sites, but

it often manifests in the skin, joints, blood, and kidneys. SLE was

first described in 1828. Its name includes " lupus, " from the Latin

term for wolf, because the disease often produces a rash that

extends across the bridge of the nose and upper cheekbones and was

thought to resemble a wolf bite.

 

The term erythematosus (from the Greek word for red) refers to the

color of the rash, and the term systemic is used because the disease

can affect organs and tissue throughout the body.

 

No treatment cures systemic lupus erythematosus, BUT many therapies

can suppress symptoms and relieve discomfort. Treatment of SLE

varies depending on the extent and severity of the disease. Milder

treatments are usually effective for symptoms such as fever,

arthritis, pleurisy, mild kidney involvement, inflammation of the

tissue surrounding the heart, headaches, and rash. More aggressive

treatment is needed if there is serious disease progression,

evidenced by the following: hemolytic anemia, low platelet count

with an accompanying rash (thrombocytopenic purpura), major

involvement in the lungs or heart, significant kidney damage, acute

inflammation of the small blood vessels in the extremities or

gastrointestinal tract, or severe central nervous system symptoms.

 

Consider this:

 

Patients have reported benefits from certain herbs, such as Essiac

Tea sometimes also called Floressence (www.florainc.com)

(used in herbal tea and other preparations).

 

White Willow Bark is a good anti-inflammatory that works like

aspirin (it is an ingredient in aspirin) with out side effects to

the stomach or gastrointestinal tract.

 

Cultivating a healthy diet low in saturated fats and high in organic

whole grains and fresh vegetables and fruits is essential. Obtaining

most proteins from vegetables, particularly non-gmo soy, and

avoiding dairy and meat products help protect the kidneys.

 

Patients should take extra vitamin D, particularly if they are on

corticosteroids. Supplements of vitamins B12, B6, and folate may be

necessary, especially in people whose blood tests show high levels

of homocysteine. According to some studies, a diet rich in fruits

and vegetables can lower homocysteine levels.

 

Exercise is safe. Take it slow and at your own pace.

 

Certain Chinese herbal formulas and acupuncture have been very

effective in treating symptoms and regulating the immune system.

 

Studies on foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, including fish oil

and raw seeds and nuts, have been showing benefits for SLE patients.

 

Researchers are also investigating compounds called indoles, also

known as mustard oil, which are found in broccoli, cabbage, Brussels

sprouts, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, collard and mustard greens,

rutabaga, turnips, and bok choy.

 

Indoles stimulate enzymes that convert estrogen to a more benign

type. Eating vegetables certainly will not cure SLE, but they offer

many health benefits in general.

 

Patients should minimize their exposure to crowds or people with

contagious illnesses. Immunizations against influenza and

pneumococcal pneumonia are usually recommended, although flu shots

can cause flares. Careful dental hygiene is also important.

 

Simple preventative measures include avoiding overexposure to

ultraviolet rays and wearing protective clothing and sun blocks.

 

Allergy shots, which increase certain SLE antibodies, should be

avoided. In general, SLE patients should use only hypoallergenic

cosmetics or hair products.

 

Chronic stress has profound physical effects and influences the

progression of SLE. Patients should try to avoid undue emotional or

physical stress. Getting adequate rest of at least 8 hours and

possibly a nap during the day may be helpful. Maintaining social

relationships and healthy activities help prevent the depression and

anxiety associated with the disease.

 

Consider diffusing essential oils into the bath or air such as

Lavender, Clary Sage or Chamomile when stressed.

 

Yoga breath exercises, deep breathing, makes a great difference in

any stressful situation.