How is systemic lupus erythematosus treated in alternative medicine?

Answer 1

The treatments goals in lupus are two fold: provide relief from the symptoms and pevent permanent damage. Depending on the severity of lupus and what body parts are affected, different medications and strategies are used. Since lupus is an inflammatory disease, both non-steroidal anti-iflammatory medications and steroids are often used. Since lupus is an auto-immune disease, various immunosuppressive drugs are also used. Some of these are hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), steroids (both antin-inflammatory and immunsuppressive), mycophenoloate mofetil (Cellcept), methotrexate, azathioprine (Imuran), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan). If the lupus patient has any of the lupus clotting factors, blood thinners like coumadin are added to the treatment regimen. Recent research shows that lupus patients are twice as likely as the general population to experience cardiovascular events so some doctors are also prescribing statins. Attention to a healthy diet, an exercise program, stress management and avoiding UVA and UVB light are useful tools in managing lupus.

Answer 2

At this time there is no cure for systemic lupus erythematosus. The majority of cases are mild to moderate, but lupus can be life threatening. For the most part, lupus can be controlled but occasional flares may still occur. Lupus is treated with immunosuppressive medication.

Answer 3

There is no cure for systemic lupus erythematosus. The treatment goal is to reduce the symptoms and prevent permanent damage. This is done through drugs that suppress the immune system and through overall healthy living. Medication is almost always required.

Answer 4

Although there is no cure for SLE, a number of alternative treatments may help reduce symptoms.