Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE)

Introduction
Discoid lupus Erythematosus is a skin condition which is chronic and acute. It is one of the most common skin disorders affecting the face. The word discoid refers to the appearance of some coin like patches on the skin. It can occur on cheeks, nose and hands. DLE may also affect the lips region resulting in ulcers at lips. It can affect the upper area of the back and v of the neck also. If DLE is not taken care it can develop in serious skin lesions called as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is a rare skin disease which can be the worse of DLE.

Alternative Names
There is no alternative name for discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE).

Causes
The cause of DLE has not been discovered yet. Exposure to sun light is a suspected factor in causing DLE. Some people prone to DLE when exposed to sunrays are affected by the ultra violet rays of the sun. These rays cause the skin to become irritated and red. Hereditary factors are suspected to be a cause of DLE. It is noted that people who have DLE, often transfer their disease to their children. Lymphocytes are said to have a very important role in causing DLE. Allergy to certain things can also result in discoid lupus erythematosus. Certain medicine and stress and tension are also a contributing factor in this regard. It is noted that it is more common in women of child bearing age but there has been no evident cause produced. This is caused because of some autoimmune disorder which affects the skin condition.

Risk Factors

Discoid lupus erythematosus is more commonly found in women than men.
Women of age 20- 30 are more susceptible to DLE.
However it can also occur in men.

Symptoms & Signs

Red coin like bumps on the skin.
Skin lesions are raised.
They are most commonly found on the area which is often exposed to sunlight such as face, hands etc.
Skin rash.
The skin becomes sensitive to sunlight.
The central area of the bump is seen to be lighter in color then the surroundings or the boundary.
Plaques are distinctiveness of the DLE
Itching and pain in the infected area is commonly noticed.
The size of plaques can be from 1cm to 4 cm.
When these skin lesions heal up, they leave behind a thick layer of on the affected area.
Scars are left behind when lesions recover.

Diagnosis
Besides physical and medical examination skin biopsy is very important to make the diagnosis of DLE. Symptoms can not reveal every thing about the disease in this regard because they can be signs of SLE instead of DLE.

Prevention
The best prevention recommended to the patients suffering from discoid lupus erythematosus is to stay away from sunlight as far as possible because the ultra violet rays badly affect the skin condition. People suffering from DLE should take care of their health by proper nutrition and clean surroundings. Do not use such chemicals which can increase the irritation and pain in skin lesions.

Treatment
The treatment of the discoid lupus erythematosus includes medication such as use of sunscreen which can prevent the patient from ultra violet rays of the sun. Steroids can also be used to treat DLE. There is a vast range of skin creams which can be used to treat the skin lesions in DLE.

Primary Natural Supplements
Herbs

Devil’s Claw
Yucca

Vitamins

Vitamin A
Vitamin E
Pantothenic Acid

Quasi Vitamins

Bioflavonoids

Minerals

Selenium

Secondary Natural Supplements
Herbs

Gotu Kola
Turmeric (Curcumin)
Cat’s claw

Vitamins

Vitamin C

Minerals

Zinc

Other Natural Supplements

Essential fatty acids
Proteolytic enzymes
Glucosamine Sulphate
Brome lain
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
Cetyl myristoleate (CMO)

Dietary Guidelines

Try eating healthy and nutritional diet.
Avoid dairy products.
Do not use red meat; instead use fish if possible.
Increase intake of vitamins in daily diet.
Eat low fat food items.
Supplements of vitamin B, C and E can also be used.
Drink a lot of distilled water daily.
Avoid using alcohol.

Home Care Suggestions
Adopt healthy and right way of living life. Adopt good habits of regulating your body’s function in proper way. Try to avoid sun light especially during 10a.m. to 3 p.m.

Mind/Body Considerations
Learn to relax even while in stress. Learn to cope up with the daily routine problems. Tension and stress can worsen the condition.

Products

Astragalus 100 caps $5.95	Full Spectrum Astragalus Extract 1 Oz $5.53	Pantothenic Acid 250 MG, 100 caps $5.37

Pantothenic Acid 100 Mg, 100 Tabs $3.13


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