I just found out I have LUPUS disease and I am pregnant!?

Question

I really don't know what LUPUS is!!! If anyone is familiar with the disease or have it please let me know what it is!

Answer 1

You can find some really good, valid information on the Lupus foundation website. There are also links for support groups as well. Lupus manifests itself differently for different people, so it will be helpful to you to look at the different symptoms they list on the site. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, heart, lungs, blood, kidneys and brain. Normally the body's immune system makes proteins called antibodies, to protect the body against viruses, bacteria, and other foreign materials. These foreign materials are called antigens.

In an autoimmune disorder like lupus, the immune system cannot tell the difference between foreign substances and its own cells and tissues. The immune system then makes antibodies directed against itself. These antibodies -- called "auto-antibodies" (auto means 'self') -- cause inflammation, pain and damage in various parts of the body. (Lupus Foundation website)


I'm sorry you discovered this at a time when you should be joyful about being pregnant. I'm really not certain how they will be able to treat you with medication as a result of your pregnancy either. Go to the "new to lupus" link on the Lupus foundation for more information. Good luck.

Answer 2

I have Lupus it is an auto immune disease. Your white cell count is usually low because your own body is attacking it. I have Lupus and am pregnant 24 weeks I have a very high ANA level meaning I can clot easily and pregnancy was not recommended. A high level of ANA is usually about 7 mine is 640, I have to have aspirin and blood thinner needles everyday to make sure I dont get a clot. You are also more at risk at having a miscarriage the body with LUPUS for some reason sees the baby as a bad thing and tries to get rid of it hence the blood thinners, also you have a higher risk of getting pre-eclapsia or going into labour early because of the Lupus. You should have regular check ups with a LUPUS specialist and your OBGYN to make sure your ANA levels are ok and to make sure if you need medication you go on it ASAP.

Answer 3

Lupus is a complex and variable disease caused by your own immune system. See a rheumatologist and obstetrician if you haven't done so already. You will need frequent check-ups during your pregnancy.

Read this:
http://www.lupus.org/webmodules/webarticlesnet/templates/new_about2.aspx?articleid=473&zoneid=23
And this:
http://www.lupus.org/education/brochures/pregnancy.html

Your local library may be of help. Some cities and some hospitals have consumer health libraries, such as Planetree, where you can get in-depth information. There are local and on-line support groups (see www.lupus.org).

Answer 4

you wont want to get so much sun and try to get rests, even it the day. Do these and ask your family doctor. My mom just found out from her eye doctor that your eyes get bad too. good luck