What is Lupus?
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. This condition can affect the skin, joints, blood cells, and vital organs like the kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain. Living with lupus often means managing ongoing symptoms and flare-ups.
Causes of Lupus
The exact cause of lupus is unknown, but research suggests it is a combination of genetics, hormones, and environmental triggers. Common triggers may include:
- Excessive sun or UV light exposure
- Certain chemicals like cigarette smoke, silica, or mercury
- Some medications (e.g. hydralazine)
- Viral infections such as Epstein-Barr or herpes zoster
- High stress levels
- Certain foods
- Pregnancy
Types of Lupus
There are several different types of lupus, including:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): The most common form, affecting skin, joints, and internal organs.
- Discoid lupus: Primarily affects the skin, causing rashes.
- Cutaneous lupus: A milder form that causes skin rashes and joint pain.
- Drug-induced lupus: Triggered by certain medications, usually resolves once medication stops.
- Neonatal lupus: A rare condition that affects newborns when antibodies transfer from mother to baby during pregnancy.
Prevalence of Lupus
Around 90% of people with lupus are women, typically between the ages of 15 and 45. Certain ethnic groups, including African, Asian, Pacific Islander, Hispanic, and Native American populations, are more likely to develop lupus.
Symptoms of Lupus
Lupus symptoms can vary widely and may appear in flare-ups or periods of remission. Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
- Skin rashes, often after sun exposure
- Fatigue, weakness, or lethargy
- Unexplained fever
- Weight loss
Other possible symptoms:
- Hair loss
- Headaches
- Mouth ulcers
- Abdominal pain
- Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold or numb fingers and toes)
Diagnosis of Lupus
Diagnosing lupus can be complex. Doctors may use:
- Visual examinations (skin rashes, oral ulcers, sun sensitivity)
- Blood tests, including ANA (anti-nuclear antibody)
- Urine tests to check kidney function
- Chest X-rays for heart and lung health
- Skin biopsies
No single test can confirm lupus; diagnosis is based on a combination of symptoms and results.
Complications of Lupus
Without proper management, lupus can lead to complications such as:
- Anaemia
- Hypertension or blood clots
- Heart or lung inflammation
- Osteoporosis
- Seizures
- Anxiety and depression
It’s important to work closely with medical professionals, take prescribed medications, and monitor for urgent symptoms like chest pain or breathing difficulties.
Treatment for Lupus
There is no cure for lupus, but treatments can reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Common treatments include:
- Biologics (e.g. Benlysta)
- Immunosuppressants (e.g. Azathioprine)
- Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)
- Antimalarial medications (e.g. hydroxychloroquine)
- Corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone)
- Chemotherapy drugs (e.g. cyclophosphamide for severe cases)
Lifestyle changes also help manage lupus:
- Adequate rest and sleep
- Stress management
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol
- Sun protection
Where to Get Help
If you suspect lupus, start by visiting your GP. You may be referred to specialists such as:
- Rheumatologists (joint/immune health)
- Dermatologists (skin health)
- Lupus Association Queensland
- Arthritis Australia
How Lotus Disability Care Supports People With Lupus
At Lotus Disability Care, we support people living with lupus and other autoimmune conditions. Our services include:
- In-home and community support
- Nursing care
- Transport and caregiver assistance
- Workshops and life skills programs
- NDIS psychosocial and allied health support
We partner with GPs, specialists, allied health, and psychosocial teams to provide individualised, client-centred, and community-based care.
If you’re living with lupus and need support under the NDIS, Lotus Disability Care is here to help you every step of the way.
