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Although there is no known cure for Lupus, early detection and treatment can usually lessen the progression and severity of this debilitating disease.

deCODEme analyzes your DNA and calculates your personal genetic risk of developing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

Once Lupus has been diagnosed, doctors will develop a treatment and flare-prevention plan based on the patient’s age, sex, health, symptoms, and lifestyle

Prevention and treatment of Lupus remains a challenge

As the precise causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus are largely unknown, prevention and treatment remain a considerable challenge. There is no specific strategy that can be used to altogether prevent the disease, regardless of the knowledge of “Lupus risk factors/lupus-risk-factors. Early detection and treatment are therefore most important as they can usually lessen the progression of the disease and protect precious organs from damage. Knowing if one is at increased genetic risk of developing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, through family history and/or a genetic risk assessment test such as the deCODEme Complete Test, can provide valuable information for the often complex diagnostic process.

Early detection and treatment of Lupus are most important

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is an unpredictable, highly individualized disease, that often causes debilitating symptoms. Lupus is also a chronic disease, meaning that it cannot be cured but requires life-long monitoring and treatment. In the past several years, treatment options have improved considerably and currently medications are available that are proving effective in managing the symptoms of the disease.

Treatment is tailored to an individual’s Lupus symptoms

Lupus treatment decisions are tailored to an individual’s symptoms and needs. As Lupus symptoms change, treatment decisions may accordingly change over time. In developing a treatment plan, a doctor has several goals: to prevent flares, to treat them when they do occur, and to minimize organ damage and complications. Optimally, the doctor and patient reevaluate the plan regularly to ensure it is as effective as possible. Treating Lupus is a team effort involving the Lupus patient and a number of medical specialists, as the symptoms typically affect so many parts of the body system.

Lupus prevention – myths and facts

Despite various sites on the Internet claiming otherwise, there is no special diet that can be used to effectively treat or prevent Lupus. People who have the disease are encouraged to maintain a nutritious, well-balanced, and varied diet that contains plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, moderate amounts of meat, poultry, and oily fish, as fish oil has been found to help reduce inflammation.

There is one food however, that people with Lupus should avoid. This is alfalfa. Alfalfa and alfalfa tablets have been associated with reports of a Lupus-like syndrome or Lupus flares. These reactions may be due to the amino acid L-canavanine (found in alfalfa seeds and sprouts, but not in leaves), which can activate the immune system and increase inflammation.

In any case, if people with Lupus plan to add herbs, dietary supplements, or vitamins to their diet they should first discuss this with their doctor. This is especially important as herbs or supplements may interact with medicines used to treat Lupus.

Preventing Lupus flares

The range and effectiveness of treatments for Lupus have increased dramatically in recent decades, giving doctors more choices in how to manage the disease. The most commonly used strategies in treating Lupus are:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs are drugs that decrease inflammation and are often used for people with fever and joint or chest pain. The most common medications in this group are aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Even though some NSAIDs may be purchased without a prescription, it is important that they be taken under a doctor’s direction. Common side effects of NSAIDs can include stomach upset, heartburn, diarrhea, and fluid retention. Some people with Lupus also develop liver, kidney, or even neurological complications, making it especially important to stay in close contact with the doctor while taking these medications.
• Antimalarials, for example hydroxychloroquine, are another type of medication commonly used to treat Lupus. Although initially developed to treat malaria, doctors have found that they are particularly effective in treating symptoms of the skin and joints that may occur in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.
• Steroid medications, such as prednisone, are sometimes used for their anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and metabolic effects. These medications modify the body’s immune response to stimuli and may reduce the inflammatory reaction in Lupus.
• Stress-reduction and relaxation techniques may also help prevent flares. Patients with Lupus often experience changes in mood and depression that may be due to the disease process (inflammatory reactions within the nervous system), the stress of chronic illness, or adverse reactions to medications. Many Lupus patients benefit from learning stress-reduction and relaxation techniques, which may also help alleviate anxiety and depression often associated with chronic illnesses. Complementary therapies such as meditation and massage can also help some patients.
• Developing and maintaining a good support system. A support system may include family, friends, medical professionals, community organizations, and support groups. Participating in a support group can provide emotional help, boost self-esteem and morale, and help develop or improve coping skills. Lupus patients and their families can also find online Lupus support groups for example on the following websites:
• The Lupus Foundation of America’s Message Boards
• Daily Strength – Online Lupus support group
• We Have Lupus – Online Lupus forum

This content was last reviewed on February 23, 2011.

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