Can systemic lupus erythematosus become pregnant?

Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a multisystemic, systemic autoimmune disease that can involve multiple organs throughout the body. Regarding the issue of whether one with systemic lupus erythematosus can become pregnant, it cannot be generalized and must be considered in conjunction with the condition of the disease. For example, if the disease is in its early stages and has been stabilized through treatment, then it is possible to become pregnant. If systemic lupus erythematosus has already presented with severe complications, such as lupus nephritis, significant proteinuria, or an increase in creatinine urea, affecting kidney function and causing kidney damage, then it is not recommended to become pregnant during this period. Pregnancy at this time not only offers no substantial benefit to the person with systemic lupus erythematosus but can also increase the burden on the kidneys, leading to further deterioration of kidney function, which can be life-threatening.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Clinical Manifestations

The clinical manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus are diverse and variable. The primary symptoms involve the bones, joints, and muscles, with joint pain being a common presentation. The second major area affected is the skin and mucous membranes, where the most common symptoms are symmetrical butterfly-shaped erythema and discoid erythema on the face. Some patients experience kidney involvement, primarily presenting as significant proteinuria, hematuria, and cylindrical urine. Pulmonary involvement is also common in some patients, often manifesting as pleurisy. The digestive system can also be affected, typically presenting as abdominal pain. The hematological system is a very common site of involvement in lupus, mainly indicated by routine blood tests showing decreases in white blood cells and platelets.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Can people with systemic lupus erythematosus eat mutton?

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus should not eat lamb. This is because foods like lamb and dog meat are overly warming and nourishing, and they may trigger a relapse of the disease. Patients should also consume less of the foods that are photosensitive, such as celery, coriander, and mushrooms. Moreover, since lupus is an autoimmune disease and patients tend to have hypersensitive constitutions, they should also reduce their intake of seafood such as shrimp and crab. Additionally, patients should avoid certain warming and nourishing foods like longan. At the same time, they can supplement their diet with high-quality, low-protein foods like egg whites and fish.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Systemic lupus erythematosus is a disease.

Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic disease. It is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems and organs and cannot be cured. It can only be controlled over the long term with medication. The goals of comprehensive treatment are to control symptoms, prevent relapses, slow the progression of the disease, and provide symptomatic treatment. Because this disease cannot be cured, it is important to avoid sun exposure, overwork, and getting chilled in daily life to prevent triggering or worsening the condition. Particularly in women, it is crucial to avoid oral contraceptives.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Systemic lupus erythematosus symptoms

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a disease that affects the entire body system, so there are generally systemic symptoms. The most common symptoms are bone and joint pain, and muscle pain. Some patients may show symptoms related to the skin and mucous membranes, mainly presenting as butterfly-shaped erythema, discoid erythema, and oral mucosal ulcers. In severe cases, patients may experience problems with the visceral system, mainly affecting the kidneys, primarily presenting as significant proteinuria in routine urine tests. Additionally, severe cases may even present with neurological and psychiatric issues, mainly exhibiting restlessness, hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, and various forms of cerebral infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, and other conditions.

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Written by Li Jing
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Systemic lupus erythematosus is not contagious.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can damage multiple systems and affect multiple organs. Its occurrence is related to genetics, environmental pollution, hormonal levels, and infections. It is classified as an autoimmune disease and is not infectious or contagious. Once diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, it is important to thoroughly complete related examinations and assess the activity level of the disease, as treatment plans vary accordingly. Therefore, for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, there is no need to worry about it being contagious. However, there is a hereditary tendency, meaning if the parents have it, the likelihood of their children developing the disease is significantly higher than others.