Lupus vs Multiple Sclerosis Quiz

Lupus: This is an autoimmune disease caused by the body's immune system attacking organs and cells. The exact cause is unclear, but risk factors include being female, especialy of childbearing age, and heredity. Lupus (SLE) may involve nearly every organ system in the body with a wide range of potential symptoms that often wax and wane over time.

Multiple Sclerosis: This is a condition where the immune system attacks parts of the brain and spinal cord. The direct cause of MS remains unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified such as low vitamin D levels, tobacco smoking, exposure to UV radiation, childhood obesity, and infection with the virus that causes mononucleosis. The disease tends to affect young people more commonly as well as people living in higher latitudes. MS typically occurs in "attacks" which can include but are not limited to painful eye movements, blurry vision in one eye, numbness or weakness in hands or feet on one side, or double vision.

Lupus Specific Symptoms

• Butterfly-shaped facial rash
• Joint pain and swelling
• Photosensitivity
• Mouth ulcers
• Kidney involvement

Multiple Sclerosis Specific Symptoms

• Vision problems
• Balance issues
• Muscle weakness
• Symptoms vary by nerve involved
• Heat sensitivity

Lupus Treatment Approaches

Though there is no cure, treatment aims to keep the disease inactive and ease symptoms. This is done through medications that suppress or modify the immune system. Creams can be given for rashes, and anti-inflammatory medicines and painkillers for joint pain.

Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Approaches

Treatment of MS includes medications, physical/occupational therapy, lifestyle changes, and psychological support. Some medications prevent immune system attacks on the central nervous system, whereas others speed up recovery from attacks, or others reduce MS symptoms such as urinary problems or imbalanced walking. Physical therapy accelerates recovery from attacks and Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking can help reduce risk of further attacks.