Lupus

Between one and two million people in the United States are known to have lupus. But many more people may have it and not know it. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system cannot tell the difference between healthy cells and invaders like viruses and bacteria. In lupus, the immune system attacks tissues throughout the body. In mild cases symptoms include joint pain and fatigue. The worst cases can end in kidney disease and even death. Lupus is difficult to diagnose and treatment is complicated. Medications can treat symptoms, but there is no cure. People who suffer from this disease need to rely on their families and friends to help them out when symptoms flare up. In 2011, USA TODAY, the Nation's No. 1 Newspaper, reported that for the first time in fifty-six years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug to treat lupus. In this book you will follow the stories of people living with lupus and learn about causes and symptoms of this debilitating disease. You'll find out about available treatments and ongoing research into new medications and therapies. You'll also receive guidance on how to cope with lupus or help a loved one manage symptoms and find help.