Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease marked by periods of remission and flare-ups where symptoms intensify. These flares can present in various ways, from fatigue and joint pain to skin rashes and kidney issues.
How flares are treated is crucial for minimizing long-term damage and improving a patient’s quality of life. Let’s talk about how stem cells can impact lupus flare-ups. Keep reading!
How is Systemic Lupus Diagnosed?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs.
The most recognized symptom of systemic lupus is a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and the bridge of the nose. Diagnosis is based on criteria established by the American and European Rheumatology Societies:
- Full physical exam to check for rashes, arthritis, or swollen ankles
- Lung and heart auscultation to detect pericardial or pleural friction rubs
- Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test
- Chest X-ray
- Serum creatinine test
- Urinalysis
- Blood tests to detect rheumatoid factor, kidney and liver function
- Antiphospholipid antibody test and lupus anticoagulant test
What Does It Mean When Lupus Is “Active”?
Lupus is considered active when the disease is causing inflammation and damage in the body—in other words, when a flare-up is occurring. This immune response triggers inflammation in various organs and systems, including the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, and lungs.
If lupus remains active for long periods, it can cause permanent organ damage. That’s why it’s vital to manage lupus activity and treat flare-ups promptly.
Main Symptoms of a Lupus Flare-Up
Flare-up symptoms vary from patient to patient and may differ in intensity and duration from one episode to the next. The most common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- General discomfort
- Hair loss
- Weight loss
- Mouth ulcers
- Sun sensitivity
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headache
- Numbness or tingling
- Seizures
- Vision problems
- Personality changes
- Memory issues
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
- Leg swelling
- Fluid buildup in the lungs
- Anemia
Lupus Treatments
Unfortunately, lupus has no cure. Traditional medicine focuses solely on symptom management. The most common treatments include:
Pharmacological Treatment
Lupus treatment typically involves a combination of medications to control symptoms and prevent damage to other organs:
- NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help relieve mild pain and inflammation.
- Antimalarials. These drugs inhibit DNA and RNA polymerases and help control rashes, joint pain, and fatigue.
- Corticosteroids. Used to manage inflammation during moderate to severe flare-ups.
- Immunosuppressants. These drugs suppress the immune system to prevent organ damage.
- Biologics. New-generation drugs that target specific components of the immune system.
Alternative Medicine
Some alternative therapies can ease lupus-related joint and muscle pain, but they should not replace conventional medical treatments, as there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness.
Stem Cell Therapy
Allogeneic stem cell therapy (from a donor), either alone or enriched with growth factors, vitamins, and minerals administered via injections, has shown strong effectiveness in reducing neurological, joint, and inflammatory symptoms while modulating the immune system.
Stem cells also significantly reduce pain, making this an excellent treatment—especially when combined with healthy habits like good sleep, sun protection, and continued medical treatment.
Other commonly used alternative therapies include:
- Acupuncture. Traditional Chinese medicine technique involving thin needle insertion under the skin.
- Therapeutic Massage. Massage can relieve muscle tension, pain, and stress, all of which can trigger lupus flares.
- Supplements. Vitamin D, calcium, and fish oil may help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
What Types of Stem Cells Help With Lupus?
Mesenchymal stem cells have immunomodulatory properties, meaning they can regulate immune system responses. They also promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and help heal organ damage caused by lupus.
Studies show mesenchymal stem cells are effective for patients with organ involvement, such as kidney damage, who no longer respond to conventional treatments.
Stromal stem cells are another option for treating lupus. These multipotent stem cells regulate immune activity and promote tissue regeneration. They are mainly used when lupus affects bones, muscles, and cartilage, as the condition may stem from mesenchymal tissue disruptions that impact both soft and hard tissues.
How to Treat a Lupus Flare-Up
A lupus flare-up can be extremely uncomfortable and severely impact quality of life. Treatment focuses on controlling inflammation, easing symptoms, and preventing long-term damage.
Stem cell therapy is effective for easing symptoms during intense flare-ups. It helps regulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and repair tissue damage.
During a flare-up, contact your rheumatologist to report any new or worsening symptoms. Also, try to manage stress, wear protective clothing to avoid sun exposure, take prescribed medications, and use cold compresses on affected areas.
Can Lupus Flare-Ups Be Prevented?
Lupus is a condition marked by alternating periods of remission and flare-ups, where symptoms come and go. One week might feel normal, and the next could bring rashes, fever, headaches, or fatigue.
To prevent flare-ups, consider the following:
- Keep a daily log of activities and symptoms to identify potential triggers.
- Limit sun exposure and always use SPF 50 sunscreen.
- Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress.
- Get at least eight hours of sleep every night.
- Do not stop or change your medications without consulting your doctor.
- Engage in gentle exercise like walking or swimming.
- Use mild, fragrance-free, moisturizing skincare products.
Stem cell therapy can also help prevent lupus flare-ups by modulating the immune system. This can delay flare-up onset and reduce symptom severity when they do occur.
Improve Your Quality of Life With CRC
If you have lupus and are looking for an effective treatment to control flare-ups and improve your quality of life, CRC offers the stem cell therapy you need. Don’t let lupus take control of your life—take back your health with CRC. Explore our full range of services by navigating through our site. Whether you’re considering stem cell therapy for knees, stem cell back treatment, or stem cell shoulder therapy, CRC provides advanced solutions tailored to your needs.
Book your consultation today. Our specialists will be happy to assist you.
