Lupus & Other Autoimmune Conditions

Your immune system is constantly looking out for you. When harmful substances, such as bacteria or viruses, enter your body, your immune system sends antibodies to attack the invader. As long as your immune system works properly, this process helps keep you from getting sick.

If you have an autoimmune condition, your immune system cannot distinguish between harmful substances and normal, healthy tissues in your body. Your immune system may attack those healthy tissues as if they were an invader.

Autoimmune conditions can affect many different areas of your body, including your blood vessels, endocrine system, joints, muscles and skin.

Types of autoimmune conditions

Scientists currently believe there are at least 80 types of autoimmune conditions. Some rheumatologic autoimmune conditions include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis

Symptoms and complications from autoimmune conditions will vary from person to person, so it’s important to work closely with a provider to receive high quality care.

What is lupus?

Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can affect almost any organ in your body. While it can be associated with a rash across the cheeks and bridge of the nose, not everyone who has lupus gets this rash. Lupus symptoms vary from person to person. The most common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Joint pain or swelling
• Kidney problems
• Muscle pain
• Sensitivity to sunlight

Treatment options for autoimmune conditions

Treatment will depend on the type of autoimmune condition you have, as well as the type and severity of your symptoms.

Some conditions, including lupus, have flare-ups when symptoms will worsen. In those cases, your providers will focus on reducing the number and severity of flare-ups. Generally, the goal of autoimmune treatment is to control the body’s process while also helping your immune system continue to fight disease.

Types of treatment for autoimmune conditions may include:

• Medications to reduce the autoimmune response (such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressive therapy)
• Physical therapy to reduce swelling and pain