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The treatment of lupus for the majority of patients is to minimize symptoms, reduce inflammation, and maintain normal bodily functions. Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of lupus flares. For patients who are photosensitive, avoiding the excessive sun exposure and use of sunscreen will help prevent rashes. To prevent muscle soreness and fatigue, regular exercise is beneficial. Being up to date with immunizations is crucial to vaccinate against preventable infections. Negative habits are hazardous for those with lupus including: smoking, alcohol abuse, not enough or too much prescription medication, or postponing regular medical checkups. Medications are commonly prescribed for people with lupus, depending on which organs are involved and the severity of illness. To optimize treatment goals, patients are encouraged to discuss with their physicians or pharmacists regarding their medications and any questions they have about side effects or changes in doses. The commonly prescribed drugs include: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) used for muscle and joint pain. Acetaminophen can be used for pain but is not very ef
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fective for inflammation. Prednisone is a corticosteroid commonly used for inflammation and to suppress the immune system. Antimalarial drugs such as chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine used to treat malaria, can also be very effective in some individuals with lupus. Other immune systems suppressing agents include azathioprine and cyclophosphamide, these act like prednisone by suppressing the immune system to prevent the flares of lupus. Some patients who have blood clotting problems take anticoagulants that "thin" the blood. Aspirin, warfarin, and heparin are the drugs of choice for this lupus symptom. Life long therapy may be indicated for those patients who are at risk of serious blood clotting complications.
Those with lupus need to know the early symptoms of the disease progression. This education will aid the physician and patient in knowing when a change in therapy is needed. Regular monitoring of the disease by laboratory tests may aid in catching any change in disease activity before a flare. The general rule is that the earlier a flare is detected the easier and more effective the
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treatment. In addition, and early treatment may prevent permanent tissue or organ damage, and shorten the duration of high-dose medication treatments.
The prognosis for lupus is not necessarily terminal and patients may live a normal life span if they can effectively life with lupus and maintain control of symptoms. Some advice to follow includes listening to and following the physician's instructions, taking medications exactly as prescribed, and knowing when to seek medical attention for unexpected side effects of a new type of flare up. Some people have significant problems with lupus, but most rarely require hospitalization. There continues to be ongoing research for a cure, but until that is found the best way to live with lupus is to effectively manage symptoms and to prevent flares with regular monitoring.
For more information check out www.lupus.org
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8120 Parallel Parkway
Kansas City, KS 66109
(913) 334-1660
6238 N. Chatham Road
Kansas City, MO 64151
(816) 746-1475
1015 N.E. Rice Road
Lee's Summit, MO 64086
(816) 525-1479
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13600 S. Blackbob
Olathe, KS 66062
(913) 782-2039
2724 W 53rd St
Fairway, KS 66205
913-236-4983
6900 W. 135th Street
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 814 WELL (9355)
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Sprint Campus
6450 Sprint Parkway
Overland Park, KS 66251
(913) 315-8646
Merriam Town Center
5800 Antioch Rd.
Merriam, KS 66202
(913) 831-4140
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