Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Different types of Lupus

There are several different types if lupus. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Cutaneous Lupus Eryththematosus, Drug-induced Lupus Erythematosus, and Neonatal Lupus. I have the first one Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or for short SLE. Systemic lupus is the most common form of lupus, and is what most people mean when they refer to "lupus." SLE can be mild or severe. Some of the more serious complications involving major organ systems are: Inflammation of the kidneys,(lupus nephritis) which can effect the body's ability to filter waste from the blood and can be so damaging that dialysis or kidney transplant may be needed. An increase in blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension). Inflammation of the nervous system and brain, which can cause memory problems,confusion,headaches, and strokes. Inflammation in the brain's blood vessels, which Can cause high fevers, seizures and behavioral changes. Hardening of the arteries (coronary artery disease), which is a buildup of deposits on coronary artery walls that can lead to a heart attack. There is a lot more information available at: http://www.lupus.org I have been very lucky not to have had any real major organ involvment yet!

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