Human Biology and Anatomy

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…

There is nothing quite like a breath of fresh air … for a multitude of reasons.  Yet, polluted air can hold the potential for triggering the immune system in a negative way with every breath.  What can this mean for those living with lupus?  Read on to find out! Introduction Lupus, The Air and Your…

Lupus retinopathy is the most common vision concern for those living with SLE, and is often one of the first symptoms for the newly diagnosed.  Yet, serious problems with eyesight are relatively rare, and there are many ways to avoid the damage that lupus can cause.  So, read on to learn more about how lupus…

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), sometimes called, the “winter blues,” can affect almost anyone this time of year.  However, this form of depression can be particularly challenging for those living with lupus.  Read on to find out more about the complex relationship between SAD and lupus, and learn some simple ways to “brighten” one’s outlook!  Introduction…

Seizures are one of the most common neurological symptoms of lupus – affecting about 10% of those living with SLE.  What are the causes of lupus seizures, and how are they diagnosed and treated?  Read on to find out!. Introduction More About Seizures Lupus and Seizures Diagnosing and Treating Lupus Seizures In Conclusion . Introduction…

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!…

Lupus may affect the central nervous system in possibly up to 40% of those living with SLE.  Often labelled by the rather scary sounding name, “neuropsychiatric lupus,” its symptoms can range from mild brain fog and headaches to more serious conditions like memory loss, seizures, strokes and others that can dramatically affect quality of life. …

Your skin is amazing!  It is your first line of defense against foreign germs, yet simultaneously, an incredibly complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi and more that make up your skin’s natural microbiome.  It is also where lupus can make its most obvious appearance – with rashes, sores, alopecia and even scaring.   So, how do…

Blood disorders can be a common complication of living with lupus. One of the most common is called thrombocytopenia – a low platelet count. Thrombocytopenia affects between 20% and 40% of those with SLE and is a good indicator of how life-threating lupus can be. So, it is worth learning more about it! Introduction Thrombocytopenia…

Lupus can attack any part of the body, and that includes the brain – causing lupus fog, memory problems and even mood swings.  Neurotransmitters, are your brain’s chemical messengers and they are definitely part of the possible.  What are neurotransmitters and why does it matter to those living with lupus?  Read on to find out! …