What is Lupus (Butterfly) Disease?

Lupus, also known in the medical world as “Butterfly Disease”, is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own tissues and organs, causing inflammation. This can affect many parts of the body, such as the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs. Lupus is a disease that significantly reduces the quality of life and requires continuous follow-up. In this article we have written for you, we will try to give information about the causes, symptoms, and types of lupus disease.

What Causes Lupus Disease?

Although the exact cause of lupus disease is unknown, genetic and environmental factors are thought to contribute to the emergence of the disease. People with a family history of lupus have a higher risk of developing the disease. In addition, some infections, medications and hormonal changes can trigger lupus disease. Lupus disease is more common in women than in men and usually occurs between the ages of 15-45.

What Are The Symptoms of Lupus Disease?

Symptoms of lupus disease may vary from person to person, and the severity of the disease and the organs it affects also affect the symptoms. The most common symptoms of lupus disease are;

• Fatigue and weakness,
• Joint pain, swelling and stiffness,
• Fever,
• Redness and rash on the skin, especially a butterfly-shaped rash on the face (malar rash),
• Sensitivity to sunlight,
• Headache, dizziness and forgetfulness,
• Chest pain and shortness of breath,
• Kidney problems,
• Decreased blood cells (anemia, low white blood cell or platelet count),

Types Of Lupus Disease

Lupus is divided into four main types according to the organs affected and symptoms. These can be explained as follows;

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); is the most common and most severe type of lupus. SLE can affect many parts of the body such as skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs.

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE); is the type of lupus that affects only the skin. DLE causes red, round, and scaly rashes on the face, scalp, and other body parts.

Drug-induced lupus; It is a type of lupus that occurs after the use of certain drugs. Symptoms usually disappear after the drug is stopped.

Neonatal lupus; When the mother has lupus, the antibodies of the disease can pass to the baby and cause a condition called neonatal lupus. This condition is usually temporary and the symptoms decrease as the baby grows.

Lupus can be controlled with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of lupus, it is important to consult a specialist and start the evaluation and treatment process.

Lupus Prevention Methods

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. Genetic and environmental factors are thought to be effective in the emergence of lupus. Although it cannot be completely prevented, lupus symptoms and attacks can be reduced and quality of life can be improved. Some methods that can help prevent lupus can be explained as follows;

You can reduce the effects of lupus by exercising regularly, eating healthy and maintaining your sleep patterns. You can also prevent lupus attacks by trying to manage stress and taking care not to smoke.

Most people with lupus should avoid exposure to sunlight because ultraviolet (UV) rays can trigger lupus symptoms. You can protect against UV rays by using sunscreen, wearing sunglasses, and wearing light-colored, long-sleeved clothing.

You can keep the symptoms of lupus under control by taking medicines prescribed by your doctor regularly. Remember to take your medicines on time and talk to your doctor about any side effects.

Meet regularly with your doctor to follow the course of lupus and update your treatment plan. This will help minimize the effects of lupus and improve your quality of life.

Coping with lupus can be difficult and you may need emotional support. By joining support groups for people with lupus and their families, you can share your experiences and learn from others.

Be aware of and avoid factors that can trigger lupus symptoms. This can include factors such as infections, stress, certain medicines, and sunlight. Knowing your triggers and avoiding them can help prevent lupus attacks.

Although lupus is not a completely preventable disease, lupus symptoms and attacks can be controlled and your quality of life can be improved with the methods mentioned above. You can take important steps to manage lupus by working closely with your doctor and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

How Is Lupus Diagnosed?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own cells, causing inflammation and damage. This disease can affect many systems of the body, primarily the skin, joints, kidneys and nervous system. Diagnosing lupus can be quite difficult due to the variety of symptoms and the course of the disease. However, there are various methods used to diagnose lupus.

The first step to diagnose lupus is to assess the patient’s symptoms and medical history. The doctor will assess the likelihood of lupus, taking into account the patient’s complaints, family history, and other risk factors. Symptoms of lupus include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, fever, and kidney problems.

The doctor will look for signs in the patient’s body that indicate signs of lupus. This may include physical signs such as redness or rashes on the skin, joint swelling, and neurological symptoms.

Laboratory tests for the diagnosis of lupus can help determine the presence of the disease and the organs affected. The most commonly used tests are;

• Blood Tests,
• Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test,
• Other Antibody Tests,
• Imaging and Biopsy,

Lupus is diagnosed by the doctor’s clinical assessment based on symptoms and laboratory results. More than one test and evaluation is usually necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Once lupus is diagnosed, the symptoms of the disease can be controlled and quality of life can be improved with an appropriate treatment plan.

Is There A Treatment For Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. This disease can affect many parts of the body, especially the skin, joints, kidneys and brain. Lupus is more common, especially in women aged 15-45 years, and symptoms can vary from person to person. So, what are the treatment options for lupus disease? Let’s learn together in the rest of our article.

There is no complete cure for lupus disease. However, various treatment methods are applied to control the course of the disease and alleviate symptoms. The main goal of lupus treatment is to improve the patient’s quality of life, prevent organ damage and reduce disease activity. Treatment methods applied for lupus patients are as follows;

• Drug Therapy,
• Lifestyle Changes,
• Physiotherapy,
• Physiotherapy Psychological Support,

Although there is no definitive cure for lupus, it is possible to control the course of the disease and alleviate symptoms with existing treatment methods. Lupus patients, in co-operation with their physicians, implementing the appropriate treatment plan and making lifestyle changes will help them improve their quality of life and cope with the disease.

Lupus Disease and Nutrition

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system damages organs and tissues by attacking its own cells. It is important for lupus patients to adopt a proper nutrition plan to improve their quality of life, alleviate disease symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Lupus is a disease that causes inflammation in the body. Therefore, it is important to consume nutrients that can help reduce inflammation. Take care to consume anti-inflammatory foods such as omega-3 fatty acids, citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, ginger, and turmeric.

Protein plays an important role in strengthening the immune system and repairing cells. Lupus patients should take care to consume protein sources such as meat, chicken, fish, dairy products, legumes, and soya in a balanced way.

Fibre is important for the health of the digestive system and is particularly important for people with lupus, as this disease can lead to intestinal problems. Support digestive system health by consuming fiber foods such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes.

People with lupus should get enough calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Meet calcium and vitamin D needs with foods such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables, salmon, and sardines.

It is important for people with lupus to limit salt intake as it can have adverse effects on kidney and heart health. Watch the salt content of processed and packaged foods and add less salt to your meals.

Alcohol and caffeine can worsen lupus symptoms and weaken the immune system. Therefore, limit or completely stop drinking alcohol and caffeinated drinks.

For the general health and immune system of people with lupus, it is important to eat a balanced and varied diet. Adopt a nutrition plan that includes all food groups and is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Individuals with lupus can alleviate the effects of the disease and improve their quality of life by reviewing their eating habits. By following the nutritional strategies outlined above, people with lupus can strengthen their immune system, reduce inflammation and prevent potential complications. As each individual’s condition is different, it is recommended that lupus patients adjust their dietary plan in consultation with a dietitian or doctor.

Wound Care in Lupus

In patients with lupus, the wound-healing process may take longer than normal. Therefore, it is of great importance to keep the wounds clean and free from infection. The following steps should be followed for wound cleaning;

• Dressings covering the wounds should be changed regularly.
• During wound cleaning, gently wash the wound with clean and warm water.
• Gently dry the skin around the wound and do not leave it moist.
• Antiseptic solutions or ointments recommended by the doctor should be used.
• Cover the wound with a sterile dressing or bandage.

Some measures that can be taken to promote wound healing in patients with lupus include Following a balanced and healthy diet.

• Follow a balanced and healthy diet. Adequate protein, vitamin, and mineral intake can accelerate wound healing.
• Support the body’s self-repair process by providing adequate sleep and rest.
• Avoiding stress and applying relaxation techniques can help strengthen the immune system.
• Use the medicines recommended by your doctor regularly and do not interrupt your controls.

Lupus patients have a higher risk of wound infection. It is important to pay attention to the signs of infection and early intervention. Signs of infection include;

• Redness, swelling and warmth around the wound,
• Bad odor coming from the wound,
• General symptoms of infection such as fever, malaise, and chills,
• Pus, or abnormal discharge from the wound,

If one or more of these symptoms are observed, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Wound care in lupus disease is a factor that significantly affects the quality of life and treatment process of patients. Keeping wounds clean and well-maintained reduces the risk of infection and accelerates the healing process. It is of great importance that lupus patients and their caregivers are aware of wound care and act in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations.

Lupus Disease Treatment Prices In Turkey

Turkey has managed to announce its name to the world with its investments and studies in the field of health. Especially the latest technological devices used in diagnosis and treatment procedures have been a beacon of hope for many diseases. However, there has been an increase in health tourism in Türkiye.

• Hospitals are large, clean, spacious and fully equipped in terms of technological equipment.
• Turkish doctors are specialized, successful, and skilled in their fields.
• Nurses and carers are friendly and compassionate.
• Finding answers to the questions asked quickly and accurately.
• Patience and understanding of all staff, including the intermediary company dealing with the patient.
• Turkey offers holiday opportunities with its natural and historical beauties.
• Easy transportation.
• Diagnosis, treatment, accommodation, eating, drinking, dressing, and holiday needs can be met at affordable prices.

Such situations are shown among the reasons for preference. We can see that patients and relatives of patients who want to come to Turkey are doing research on Lupus Disease Treatment Prices in Turkey. However, it would not be right to give clear price information at this stage. Many factors such as the type of disease, stage, diagnosis process, treatment process, and stay in Türkiye affect the price issue. If you want to get more detailed price information, you can contact us. In addition, if you come to Turkey for treatment through us, we can facilitate your visa application process with the invitation letter sent by us to the consulate.