Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - SLE) | Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in Indore

1. Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – SLE)

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues in multiple organs, causing inflammation and damage. SLE can affect:

Skin

Joints

Kidneys

Heart

Lungs

Blood cells

Brain and nervous system

It is more common in women, mainly in the age bracket of 15–45 years.

Causes & Risk Factors

Immune Dysfunction – The Immune system produces autoantibodies that attack self-cells.

Genetic factors: A family history of autoimmune disease increases risk.

Environmental Triggers – Sun exposure, infections, stress, certain medications.

Hormonal Factors – Estrogen may play a role, explaining the higher prevalence in women.

Symptoms

Common Symptoms

Fatigue

Fever

Joint pain, stiffness and swelling

Butterfly configuration facial rash across cheeks and nose

Skin rash, or photosensitivity

Hair loss

Mouth or nose ulcers

Organ-Specific Symptoms

Lupus nephritis-inflammation of the kidneys: proteinuria, oedema

Heart/lung inflammation – chest pain, shortness of breath

Neurological: headaches, seizures, mood changes

Blood anaemia, low platelets

Complications

Renal failure

Cardiovascular disease

Stroke

Severe infections, probably because of immunosuppressive therapy

Osteoporosis

Diagnosis

Blood Tests: ANA-antinuclear antibodies, anti-dsDNA, anti-Smith antibodies

Urine tests: To check for blood or proteins in the urine

Inflammatory Markers: ESR, CRP

Imaging: X-rays, echocardiography, or CT/MRI for organ involvement

Clinical presentation: rash, swelling of joints, organ-specific symptoms

Treatment

1. Drugs

NSAIDs: Decrease pain and inflammation

Corticosteroids: Suppress flare-ups

Antimalarials: Hydroxychloroquine for skin and joint involvement

Immunosuppressants: Methotrexate, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide

Biologics: Belimumab or rituximab in resistant cases

2. Lifestyle & Supportive Care

Sun protection-avoid triggers of skin rash

Balanced diet and regular exercise

Stress management (yoga, meditation)

Regular monitoring for organ involvement

2. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath—the protective covering of nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. This disrupts nerve signals, leading to neurological symptoms.

MS is more common in women and is generally diagnosed between 20-50 years.

Causes & Risk Factors

Immune Dysfunction-Myelin and nerve fibres are under autoimmune attack.

Genetic Predisposition: Family history is a risk factor.

Physical: Low vitamin D, viral infections, and smoking.

Geographical Risk: Higher prevalence in the temperate region.

Symptoms

Early Signs

Fatigue

Numbness or tingling in limbs

Weakness or stiffness in the legs/arms

Optic neuritis (blems of vision) – blurred or double vision

Other Symptoms

Difficulty walking or balance problems

muscle spasms or tremors

Bladder or bowel dysfunction

Cognitive problems: forgetfulness, lack of concentration

Mood disorders-depression, anxiety

Types of MS

RRMS-relapsing-remitting MS: Episodes of flare-ups followed by recovery.

SPMS: Characterised by gradual worsening after RRMS.

Primary Progressive MS (PPMS): Steady progression without relapses.

Progressive-Relapsing MS (PRMS): Rare, continuous progression with occasional flare-ups.

Complications

Muscle weakness or paralysis

Loss of vision

Falling due to an imbalance

Bladder and bowel problems

Cognitive impairment

Depression

Diagnoses

MRI: Detects demyelinated plaques in the CNS

Lumbar puncture: Assesses cerebrospinal fluid for inflammatory markers

Evoked Potentials: These record electrical activity in nerves.

Blood Tests: Ruling out other conditions

Cure

1. Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)

Interferon beta, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab, ocrelizumab

Reduce recidivism and retard the course of disease

2. Symptomatic Treatment

Muscle relaxants for spasms

Pain management

Bladder and Bowel Support

3. Corticosteroids

Short-term therapy during relapses to reduce inflammation

4. Lifestyle & Supportive Care

Physical therapy and exercise to maintain mobility

Occupational therapy in daily living skills

Balanced diet featuring anti-inflammatory foods

Managing stress and yoga for fatigue and well-being

5. Complementary Approaches

Homoeopathy, Ayurveda, and acupuncture may help with fatigue, stress, and overall quality of life, but do not replace conventional therapy.

Prognosis

SLE With appropriate management, most patients experience long-term remission. Regular monitoring reduces organ damage, improving life expectancy. MS Disease course is variable; early treatment improves long-term outcomes. Many patients maintain a good quality of life with medications, physiotherapy, and lifestyle management