Lupus

An estimated 1.5 million Americans have lupus, a condition that can increase risk factors for cardiovascular disease, chronic joint pain, and other serious health issues. Bioinfusion Center specializes in lupus management for adults who don’t respond well to traditional medications. Cindy Crosby, MSN, FNP, CCRN, CRNI, and the medical team offer intravenous (IV) infusion treatments to calm widespread inflammation and other lupus symptoms, so you can maintain a healthier, more active lifestyle. Call the Farmington Hills, Michigan, office today to schedule a lupus consultation or book an appointment online.

What is lupus?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack otherwise healthy tissues, including the:

• Brain
• Heart
• Kidneys
• Joints
• Skin

An immune system attack triggers chronic inflammation in the body, which contributes to persistent pain and other symptoms. The root cause of lupus isn’t clear, but your genetic history and environment play a role in the condition. 

Without treatment, lupus can increase your risk factors for severe health problems, including kidney damage, neurological issues, and cardiovascular disease.

Bioinfusion Center offers IV infusion services to support adults with lupus who don’t respond to traditional oral treatments. The team personalizes a treatment plan to reduce inflammation and improve your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of lupus?

 The widespread inflammation of lupus can cause symptoms that affect various parts of the body. Symptoms can be prominent during flare-ups that last for several weeks before going into a period of remission that can last for months or years.

Lupus symptoms vary from person to person and can include:

• Joint swelling and pain
• Low-grade fever
• Skin rashes
• Hair loss
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight

Memory loss, confusion, and mood swings can also result from lupus. Some people develop blood clots or anemia.

Lab tests, including bloodwork and urine testing, identify markers for lupus to confirm a diagnosis. You might also need an ultrasound or other diagnostic imaging tests to determine how lupus affects your organs.

Bioinfusion Center offers comprehensive health exams to determine if you’re a candidate for IV infusion therapy to control lupus symptoms.

How does IV therapy treat lupus?

IV infusion therapy delivers anti-inflammatories and other medications directly into the bloodstream. This treatment method may be beneficial to people who don’t respond well to oral medications, those who have issues absorbing oral medicines, and individuals who need higher doses of medications to manage certain lupus symptoms.

The infusion specialists offer IV medications like Benlysta and Saphnelo® that target pathways in the immune system that play a role in lupus symptoms.

Lifestyle changes, stress management, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise are essential for managing lupus long-term. You might also need to avoid direct sunlight and wear protective sunscreen when outdoors, as the sun can trigger lupus symptoms in certain people.

Call Bioinfusion Center today to schedule a lupus consultation or book an appointment online.