In October of 2020 I was diagnosed with Lupus. Before my results came back I have never even heard of Lupus let alone knew what is was or how much my life would change after that day.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that effects the major organs of the body. There is no cure for Lupus. It is one of those chronic illness that people have to live with. Lupus causes the immune system to become hyperactive and attack healthy tissue.
Some patients experience more severe symptoms than others. Thankfully, my case has always been on the more milder side. I know some people who are on dialysis due to kidney failure. I even know of people who have died from Lupus. As for me, I get tired more easily than the average person. I experience frequent joint pain, butterfly rashes on my face, and I get sick very often. I can't be out in the sun for too long or that will cause a flare up that might last weeks. I also struggle with keeping weight on and have recently noticed hair and memory loss.
The month of May is Lupus Awareness Month. Something you can do this month is go get blood work done. If that is something you haven't done in a while, now is the time. I would have never been diagnosed when I was if it wasn't for routine blood work. Encourage your friends and family to do the same. It could save a life.