Look out for Lupus

Have you heard of lupus? A growing number of advocates are raising awareness about this little-known condition, said to affect roughly 0.1% of the population in Singapore¹.

While relatively rare in Singapore, lupus can have a big impact on your quality of life. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease with multiple potentialtriggers, from sunlight, medication, to contracting an infection. It weakens bones, causes joint pain, and poses serious heart disease risks². As lupus is alifelong condition, there is no permanent cure. However, good precautions and habits will help you manage the symptoms and prevent life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, or kidney failure³.

Coping with sun-smart strategies

Lupus comes with a likelihood of developing photosensitivity, an adverse reaction to ultraviolet rays from sunlight or artificial light sources. Two-thirds ofpeople with lupus are afflicted with this condition⁸.

Symptoms of photosensitivity among lupus patients ranges from scaly skin rashes to a serious condition called lupus flare that could trigger fever, joint pain,or organ inflammation⁸.

If you have lupus, managing your exposure to sunlight is a top priority. Here’s a few tips to keep you shielded from the sun.

The intensity of lupus varies greatly. While milder forms of lupus only manifest as minor discomfort and manageable symptoms, severe cases can belife-threatening. To prevent painful flare-ups and recurrent attacks, people with lupus need to consult closely with their physician and take their medication regularly. With proper care and treatment, up to 80-90% people with lupus can look forward to a longer life expectancy¹¹.

Biological factors such as gender, age, and ethnicity may factor into your likelihood of having lupus, but this condition could affect almost anyone. If you detect any of the symptoms described in the infographic piece above, it is prudent to seek the advice of a medical professional.

You may also protect yourself financially from future treatment costs with GREAT Critical Cover: Complete, a comprehensive medical plan that providescoverage against 53 critical illnesses, including the most common and severe type of lupus, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). With 100% lump sum payout upon diagnosis at early, intermediary, or critical stages, you can feel financially at ease. Boost your coverage with an optional Protect Me Again rider to secure 100% payout against two more critical illnesses.

Sources:

1. https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/women/lupus-signs-causes-treatment-autoimmune-disease-sle-cle-joint-pain-356591
2. https://www.healthxchange.sg/bones-joints/shoulder-elbow-hands/facts-about-lupus-who-at-risk
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lupus/symptoms-causes/syc-20365789#
4. https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/lupus
5. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4875-lupus
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3342646/
7. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321594
8. https://www.healthxchange.sg/how-to-manage/lupus-nephritis/facts-about-lupus-who-at-risk
9. https://www.healthline.com/health/lupus/drug-induced-lupus
10. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21808-discoid-lupus
11. https://www.lupus.org/resources/about-neonatal-lupus
12. https://www.healthxchange.sg/news/sgh-doctor-uv-levels-in-singapore
13. https://www.cancer.org.au/about-us/policy-and-advocacy/prevention/uv-radiation/related-resources/tinted-windows
14. https://www.lupus.org/resources/prognosis-and-life-expectancy