Biology of Autoimmunity

Lupus has a way of showing up in unexpected places, and sometimes that includes the protective linings around the lungs, heart, or abdomen. This condition, called serositis, may not be as well-known as other lupus symptoms, but it is surprisingly common and it can lead to serious problems.  Read on to better understand serositis and…

Gut health has increasingly become an important focus for many autoimmune conditions, like lupus – and leaky gut syndrome is one of the more controversial areas in that research.  Can it cause lupus? Can it be treated, and what could it mean for you?  Read on to find out! Introduction The Science of Leaky Gut…

Imagine biting into your favorite dish, only to find the flavors bland, metallic-tasting or even completely gone. For people living with lupus, this surprising symptom can do more than just turn everyday eating into a blah experience; it can significantly affect your health and quality of life. How?  Check out this week’s blog article to…

The spleen plays a vital role in the body’s immune system and overall health, and though serious lupus complicationss are rare, it is important to understand the role of this master blood filter of the body and how it can be affected by SLE!   . Introduction: What Does the Spleen Do? How Lupus Affects…

Fevers are a common symptom of lupus.  At times it can be your body telling you what you already know … you have inflammation, but sometimes it’s your body telling you that you have a dangerous complication, like an infection.  So, it is important to take fevers seriously!   Read more to discover the causes…

For those living with lupus, blood clots can be a significant health risk, possibly leading to strokes, heart attacks, pulmonary thromboses and especially kidney damage. Treating for these conditions means that many with SLE add anticoagulants (blood thinners) to their lengthy list of medications. What could this mean for you?  Read on to find out!…

Talking about “biomarkers” may not sound exciting, or even particularly interesting, yet they are absolutely critical to both diagnosing lupus and improving treatment plans for patients.  They are also vitally important tools that scientists use in their search for a cure, and the future of biomarkers is a bright one for those living with lupus! …

Corticosteroids, like prednisone, can be life-changing – even life-saving – for those living with lupus.  Yet, they carry serious side-effects and can disrupt your quality of life.  So, how to balance the good with the bad?  Under physician supervision, carefully tapering your steroid dosages –even eliminating them – may be the answer.  Read on to…

Selenium may be the most important nutrient that you have never heard of.  Yet, it is vital for maintaining overall health and reducing the inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases like lupus. Read on to learn more about the relationship between selenium, inflammation and SLE. What is selenium and why is it important for your health?…

The pituitary is the most important endocrine gland in your body and autoimmune hypophysitis, though rare, is a condition that can dramatically affect your health and your life with lupus.  How?  Read on to find out! The 30-second Overview Your Pituitary – A Quick Overview Autoimmune Hypophysitis – A Quick Overview Autoimmune Hypophysitis and Lupus…