Systematic Wolf Erythematosus, commonly known as Lupus, is an autoimmune disorder that affects over 5 million people globally. As with many autoimmune diseases, Lupus disproportionally affects women than men.

Nine out of ten Lupus patients are women with the onset typically occurring during childbearing age. The cause of Lupus remains relatively unknown, and there is no known cure. However, with early detection and proper management, the prognosis is generally positive.

What is Systematic Wolf Erythematosus (Lupus)?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that typically attacks healthy tissue and organs, such as joints, skin, kidneys, and systems such as blood and the nervous system.

The specific cause of the disease remains unknown but genetic factors, environmental factors such as exposure to UV rays, stress, hormonal imbalances, and some medications could trigger the onset of Lupus. Lupus can manifest in many ways, causing a wide range of symptoms and severity in different parts of the body. The most common symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, ulcers or sores in the mouth, and an unexplained fever.

Who’s at Risk for Lupus?

Lupus can affect people at any age, but it is most often seen in women aged 15-45 years. There is a genetic disposition to Lupus, meaning that if someone in your family has Lupus, you may be more prone to develop the disease.

Women of color, particularly African American, Hispanic, and Asian women, are more likely to develop the disease than white women. Additionally, exposure to UV rays appears to worsen the symptoms of Lupus, which could explain why the disease is more common in people living closer to the equator.

Why are Women More Affected by Lupus?

As mentioned, Lupus affects women at a much higher rate than men. Researchers continue to study the possible reasons behind this gender disparity.

Although the exact causes of Lupus remain unclear, studies have shown some associations between hormonal levels and Lupus symptoms. Studies have found that estrogen seems to stimulate the immune system, which, when combined with other factors that can trigger Lupus, could lead to an increased risk of developing the disease.

In other words, while both men and women have estrogen, women have higher levels, leading to a higher risk of developing Lupus.

Aside from hormonal imbalances, there may also be a genetic link to Lupus. The majority of Lupus cases occur in women than men, implicating hormonal exposures such as during pregnancy or childbirth in the development of the disease.

Women who have experienced miscarriages or abortions also seem to be at a higher risk for Lupus. Although the reasons are unclear, this type of hormonal exposure seems to increase the chances of developing autoantibodies – the markers in blood that help identify autoimmune disorders like Lupus.

Diagnosis and Management of Lupus in Women

Early and accurate diagnosis of Lupus is essential in preventing irreversible organ damage. However, the diagnosis can be complex because the symptoms of Lupus tend to overlap with other autoimmune diseases, making it difficult to pinpoint.

To diagnose Lupus, a physician will perform a series of tests, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging scans, as well as reviewing medical history and symptoms reported by the patient. The tests will identify specific criteria used to diagnose Lupus, known as The American College of Rheumatology criteria.

Lupus has no known cure, and the goal of treatment is to manage the symptoms and prevent irreversible organ damage. Treatment is tailored to manage the severity of the symptoms, which can range from mild to life-threatening.

Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs, and immunosuppressive drugs. Exercise, diet management, and stress management are also important lifestyle changes that can help manage the symptoms of Lupus and improve overall health.

Conclusion

Lupus is a complex autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people globally. Women are more likely to develop the disease, accounting for nine out of ten Lupus cases.

The reasons behind the disproportionate gender are unclear, but hormonal imbalances and exposure to UV rays are some possible factors. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential in managing the symptoms and preventing irreversible organ damage. Although there is no known cure for Lupus, with the proper management of symptoms, Lupus patients can lead a long and fulfilling life.