Lupus Speaks in Silence; We Must Listen
Lupus is an unpredictable and often misunderstood autoimmune disease—difficult to diagnose, challenging to live with, and complex to treat. Most who have Lupus experience it in silence due to the complexities of the disease. At Marlene's Kaleidoscope, we believe that silence is not an option. By turning a conversation into action, we aim to shed light on lupus, its impact, and the resources available to understand and combat it. Let’s work together to break the silence and make a difference
What is Lupus?
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, blood, and kidneys. Normally, the immune system protects the body by attacking viruses, bacteria, and other harmful invaders. However, in lupus, the immune system loses the ability to distinguish between foreign substances and the body’s own cells and tissues. This produces antibodies that mistakenly attack the body itself, leading to widespread inflammation and damage.
Signs & Symptoms
There’s no single “first sign” of lupus—it can show up in many ways. Early symptoms often include things like extreme fatigue, joint pain, or a butterfly-shaped rash, but they can look different for everyone.
Common Symptoms Include:
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Extreme fatigue
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Pain or swelling in the joints
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Swelling in the hands, feet, or around the eyes
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Headaches
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Low fevers
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Sensitivity to sunlight or fluorescent light
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Chest pain when breathing deeply
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Hair Loss
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Mouth Sores ​
Marlene's Kaleidoscope is a proud supporter of the Lupus Foundation of America.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Getting diagnosed with lupus or another autoimmune disease can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The journey is often long, with symptoms that mimic other conditions, making it challenging to pinpoint the right diagnosis. Depending on who you ask, you might be told it took anywhere from months to several years for a Lupus patient to be properly diagnosed. That’s why lupus is called the “great imitator.”
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A rheumatologist usually makes the diagnosis, but other specialists may be involved. Diagnosis relies on a combination of symptoms and blood tests.
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Although there’s no cure for lupus, many effective treatments are available to help manage the condition. Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of lupus and may include steroids, antimalarials, immunosuppressants, or other medications.