Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic disease that causes inflammation in connective tissues, such as cartilage and the lining of blood vessels, which provide strength and flexibility to structures throughout the body.
It is an autoimmune disease. In this disease, the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) can vary and may change over time. Common symptoms include:
- Severe fatigue
- Joint pain, swelling, and muscle pain
- Headaches and fever
- A rash on the cheeks and nose, called a “butterfly rash”
- Hair loss
- Anemia
- Blood-clotting problems
- Fingers turning white or blue and tingling when cold (Raynaud’s phenomenon)
- Depression
- Kidney problems (lupus nephritis): Symptoms include weight gain, swollen ankles, high blood pressure, and decreased kidney function.
Causes
The exact cause of SLE isn’t known, but research suggests several factors are associated with the disease:
- Genetics: While not linked to a specific gene, lupus often occurs in people who have family members with other autoimmune diseases.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to ultraviolet rays, certain medications, infections, physical or emotional stress, or trauma can trigger SLE in susceptible individuals.
- Sex and Hormones: SLE affects women more than men, and symptoms may be worse during pregnancy or menstrual periods. The female hormone estrogen may play a role.
Nutrition And Supplements
- Include more antioxidant-rich foods like green leafy vegetables and fruits such as blueberries, pomegranates, and cherries.
- Avoid refined foods such as white bread, pasta, and sugar.
- Eat fewer red meats and increase intake of beans for protein.
- Use healthy cooking oils, such as olive or coconut oil.
- Avoid coffee, other stimulants, alcohol, and tobacco.
- Drink plenty of fluids every day.
Scope Of Homoeopathy
Symptoms of SLE can be effectively managed with homeopathy and minimal side effects. Since SLE is an autoimmune disease, homeopathy offers a distinctive scope as it helps in reforming and resetting the immune system, which may provide advantages over conventional medicine.
Homoeopathic Invention
According to recent research in Homoeopathy, SLE may be triggered by a separation conflict “from the face” either through loss of contact with a person, loved one, or family member, or a strong desire to separate (“get out of my face!”) but being unable to do so.
Medications
Homoeopathic Medications
Sepia :
In cases where lupus begins around or just after menopause, sepia is one of the best homeopathic medicines for SLE. There are hot flashes with weakness and increased sweating. The patient may tend to faint easily.
Apis :
When there is the involvement of the kidneys, apis is one of the best homeopathic medicines for lupus or SLE. There are casts in the urine. It causes inflammation of the kidneys and the urine is scanty. Burning and stinging pain while urinating is often present. Oedema of various body parts.
Arsenic Alb :
When there is an interstitial disease of the lungs or any other involvement of the lungs, arsenic is one of the best homeopathic medicines for SLE. There is a cough which is worse after midnight and lying on the back. Expectoration is white, frothy, and scanty. Anxiety and restlessness are common accompanying symptoms.
Belladonna :
When intense fever is present, belladonna is one of the best homeopathic medicines for SLE or lupus. The skin is red, hot, and flushed. There is throbbing pain in the carotid arteries.
Hydrocotyl :
When there is extensive involvement of skin, hydrocotyle is one of the best homeopathic remedies for SLE. There is dryness of the skin and even the eruptions on the skin are dry in nature. Exfoliation of the skin is common.
