Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and damage in various parts of the body, such as the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain. The treatment for lupus is aimed at controlling inflammation and preventing damage, while also relieving symptoms.
The main types of medications used to treat lupus include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These can help reduce pain and inflammation in the joints.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These can slow down the progression of the disease and prevent organ damage. Common DMARDs used to treat lupus include hydroxychloroquine, azathioprine, and methotrexate.
- Biologic agents: These are a newer class of drugs that target specific parts of the immune system. Biologics such as belimumab, rituximab, and tocilizumab can be effective in treating lupus.
- Glucocorticoids: These are a type of steroid that can be used to reduce inflammation and pain. They are usually used for short-term treatment.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress can also be beneficial. It's also important to avoid exposure to UV light and to use sunscreen to protect skin from sun damage.
Physical therapy and occupational therapy can also be helpful in managing lupus. A physical therapist can develop an exercise program that is tailored to your specific needs and can help you maintain or improve joint function. Occupational therapy can help you learn new ways of doing things to conserve energy and avoid overusing affected joints.
It is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan that is right for you. The treatment plan may need to be adjusted over time as the disease progresses and your response to treatment changes. Lupus is a complex disease and it's important to have a multidisciplinary approach for treatment and management.
Source: Vivacare
Last updated : 1/27/2023