Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: SLE and RA

There are over 100 known autoimmune diseases, but what exactly is an autoimmune disease? The dictionary definition explains it as “a disease resulting from a disordered immune reaction in which antibodies are produced against one’s own tissues…"According to the University of Oxford, autoimmune diseases affect approximately one in ten people. Systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis are examples of significant autoimmune diseases.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own healthy tissues by mistake. MedlinePlus notes that “SLE is more common in women than men by nearly 10 to 1.” Symptoms of SLE include fatigue, hair loss, mouth sores, joint pain, sensitivity to sunlight, swelling, a butterfly-shaped face rash, and more. Although there is no cure for SLE, treatment options such as regular check ups, inflammation medication, and immunosuppressive medications can minimize symptoms.

However, not all autoimmune conditions attack the same organs, one instance being Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Instead of attacking its own tissues as SLE does, the body attacks its own joints, causing pain and swelling which can eventually lead to joint damage and can affect other parts of the body such as the skin, eyes, lungs, mouth, and heart. RA often causes symptoms such as soreness, stiffness, fatigue, fever, pain, and weakness as well. If not monitored, RA may lead to damaged joints, heart disease, inflammation of blood vessels, etc. To prevent further complications, drugs for inflammation and soreness, physical therapy, and surgery are a few treatment options for RA, as there is currently no cure.

Jan 19 • Written by Donna Ju • Edited by Nathan Lee and Erin Tran