Can lupus be caused by environmental factors?
While the environmental elements that can trigger lupus and cause flares aren’t fully known, the most commonly cited are ultraviolet light (UVA and UVB); infections (including the effects of the Epstein-Barr virus), and exposure to silica dust in agricultural or industrial settings.
How is lupus contracted?
Lupus isn’t contagious. You can’t catch it from another person — even through very close contact or sex. Experts think this autoimmune disease starts due to a combination of genes and the environment. Lupus affects nearly 1.5 million Americans.
What toxins cause lupus?
In addition, certain environmental factors have been linked to the development of lupus. These environmental contributors are difficult to isolate, but researchers have established links between lupus and a variety of toxins, such as cigarette smoke, silica, and mercury.
How does sunlight affect lupus?
Many people with lupus experience photosensitivity or unusual sensitivity to sunlight. This can trigger symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, and burning. Excess sun exposure can also cause flares in systemic lupus, triggering symptoms such as joint pain, weakness, and fatigue.
Can emotional stress cause lupus?
Although doctors haven’t proven that stress is a direct cause of lupus, it’s known to trigger flare-ups in people who already have the disease. Stressful events that can make symptoms worse include: A death in the family. Divorce.
Can I be in the sun with lupus?
If you have lupus, protecting yourself from sun exposure is an essential part of managing your condition. Many people with lupus experience photosensitivity or unusual sensitivity to sunlight. This can trigger symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, and burning.
Is caffeine bad for lupus?
Coffee and other caffeine-containing foods are a mixed bag – both good and bad – for people with lupus. Fatigue is a common symptom of , and it can come along with brain fog and . These feelings of malaise and tiredness are some of the neuropsychiatric symptoms of lupus.