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 Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Is systemic lupus erythematosus serious?

Firstly, whether systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is severe cannot be generalized. It is an autoimmune disease that cannot be completely cured and can cause damage to multiple systems and organs, leading to serious complications. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct a clinical analysis and assess the severity of the condition as mild, moderate, or severe after diagnosis. Furthermore, if severe anemia or a decrease in platelets occurs, the condition is relatively severe, and the presence of oliguria or anuria or central nervous system damage, this is known as lupus crisis. These conditions can be life-threatening, even leading to death. In such cases, the condition is relatively critical, and it is essential to actively treat and control the condition. Once the condition stabilizes, the medication dosage should be gradually reduced to maintain stability.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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What is the best food to eat for systemic lupus erythematosus?

Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems and organs and cannot be cured. It can only be managed through medications to control the progression of the disease and delay the onset of complications. Therefore, it's not about what food is good for lupus, but rather about managing any complications it may have. Some foods to avoid include tomatoes, bayberries, figs, celery, bananas, as well as other fruits and vegetables that have been exposed to prolonged sunlight. The general principle is to adopt a low-salt, low-fat diet while increasing the intake of high-quality proteins, primarily lean meats and pure milk, to boost resistance and immunity.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Test Items

First, if there are symptoms such as facial erythema, butterfly rash, joint pain, hair loss, or even stillbirth or miscarriage, systemic lupus erythematosus should be suspected. For systemic lupus erythematosus, related medical tests are necessary, including complete blood count, urinalysis, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, 13 autoantibody tests, and anticardiolipin antibodies. These are the primary and most basic tests, specifically the 13 autoantibody tests. If the diagnosis is confirmed based on these tests, further assessments such as heart evaluation, chest CT need to be perfected. When necessary, 24-hour urine protein quantitation and kidney biopsy should be performed to assess the damage to the kidneys and the severity of the condition, mainly influencing the subsequent treatment plan.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Systemic lupus erythematosus symptoms

The symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus mainly include fever, oral ulcers, facial erythema, including discoid and malar rash, photosensitivity, joint pain, polyserositis, including pleural effusion and pericardial effusion, as well as kidney involvement. The main manifestations are positive urinary protein, hematuria, and casts in the urine. Severe cases may have neurological involvement, presenting as epilepsy, mental disorders, or altered consciousness. Blood tests in these patients can further reveal positive ANA, anti-double-stranded DNA, and anti-Sm antibodies, as well as low complement levels. These are the related symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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What should be noted about systemic lupus erythematosus?

Patients with lupus should be cautious about several lifestyle factors. First, they should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, as ultraviolet rays can potentially trigger the activity of lupus. Second, they should not overexert themselves, as fatigue can also lead to an exacerbation of lupus symptoms. Third, they must strictly avoid infections. Due to the long-term use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, lupus patients have reduced immunity, and even a minor infection can become uncontrollable. For lupus patients, lifelong medication is crucial. Commonly used medications include corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine. If the patient's visceral systems are involved, immunosuppressants may also be required. Additionally, patients should consistently attend regular check-ups at the rheumatology clinic. (Specific medication use should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)