Lupus: Understanding Its Causes

What Is Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, meaning the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues instead of foreign invaders like bacteria or viruses. It results in inflammation, pain, and tissue damage throughout the body. Lupus is also known as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). It affects approximately 1.5 million Americans, most of whom are women between the ages of 15 and 44. There is no single known cause of lupus, and it’s not always clear why some individuals develop the condition while others don’t.

Nature Vs. Nurture: Genetic Factor

Studies have shown that genetics may play a role in lupus. Abnormalities in chromosomes or specific genes are often seen in patients with lupus. While these may indicate an increased risk of developing lupus, they do not guarantee that a person will develop the condition. Ultimately, genetics is only one of many potential causes of lupus that are just being explored.

Environmental Factors

When it comes to lupus, environmental factors are thought to also play a role. Exposure to ultraviolet light, certain medications, and certain infections such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are all associated with an increased risk of developing lupus. While none of these causes guarantee lupus, they may contribute to an individual’s risk.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes are also believed to be possible causes of lupus. Hormonal fluctuations are normal and occur during puberty, menopause, and pregnancy. During these times, the risk of flares can be increased. Additionally, medications that mimic hormones such as oral contraceptives, can also contribute to hormonal changes and may increase the risk for flares.

Stress

In addition to environmental and genetic factors, it’s thought that stress can contribute to the development of lupus and the severity of symptoms. Stress can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and environmental. It’s believed that unrelenting stress can increase inflammation in the body, causing lupus flares.

Conclusion

While it’s not fully understood what causes lupus, genetic, environmental, hormonal, and stress-related factors all may play a role. Research is ongoing to further understand the complexities that make up lupus and its causes.