treatment wont cure lupus, but it used to reduce the imflammed tissue and to control the abnormal immune system. every lupus patient never has the same symptoms as another, so doctors tailor the treatment. to treat lupus, you need to take drugs. the four main ones are:
-Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
these are for pain relief. they might work great on some people, while others might not get an effect. this drug doesnt modify the disease, only lessens the imflammation, pain and some symptoms like arthritis and muscle aches.
- Anti-malarial drugs
while malaria doesnt have anything to do with lupus, the treatment is used to reduce the symptoms. these include skin rashes, mouth ulcers, hair loss and joint swelling. patients are advised to get their eyes checked very six months though, as the drug may affect your sight.
- Corticosteroids
this is a hormone that acts like a steroid. it is very effective against the symptoms of lupus but it also has many short and long term side effects similar to steroids.
- Immunosuppressants
the name is the same as it's actions, it surpresses the immune system. it is used when the immune system is over-active. it is effective too, but has serious side effects like anaemia, hair loss and even cancer. it is only used in severe cases of lupus when other drugs arnt enough to control the disease.
the best thing to do is to check if you have lupus eariler than later. you wont need to take multiple drugs and it will be less serious. there are also natural and herbal treatments you could try.
http://www.lupusnsw.org.au/lwlupus.html
