Did you recently notice that your child's joints are swollen? If you are having a hard time figuring out what is causing the swelling, it might be because of his or her systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Basically, SLE is an autoimmune disease that can become fatal if the proper type of treatment isn't done before it progresses too far. The best thing that you can do for your child is to take him or her to get examined by a pediatrician so a diagnosis can be made as soon as possible. This article covers some of the important things that should be known about a child suffering from SLE.

How Does a Child Get SLE?

If your child is diagnosed with SLE, it basically means that his or her immune system does not work correctly. For example, the immune system begins to attack the body and cause harm when it should be protecting it against illness. The most important thing that makes SLE a chronic disease is that it can attack your child's body in any area.

Are There Other Symptoms Besides Swollen Joints?

There are numerous symptoms that your child might experience, but it depends on how far the disease has progressed. For example, a high fever is one of the symptoms that can be experience during the early stage of SLE. At some point, your child can develop a rash that resembles the shape of a butterfly, which extends from cheek to cheek over the nose. Abdominal pain, weakness, and hair loss are some of the other SLE symptoms.

What Can Lead to SLE Becoming Fatal?

The key to surviving SLE is to prevent it from attacking the most vital body parts, such as the kidneys. Being that the disease can attack any area of the body, it is possible for it to weaken the heart. Your child's liver can also stop functioning as it should, which can lead to toxins remaining in the body.

Does a Diagnosis Require Numerous Tests?

You will basically be asked about the type of symptoms that your child is experiencing in order for a diagnosis for SLE to be made. The pediatrician will want to make sure that there are no other medical conditions that are responsible for the symptoms. Your child's face will be thoroughly examined for signs of the rash that is common for sufferers of lupus. The extent of tests administered will solely be based on your child's specific condition. Treating SLE will also depend on the stage of the disease that your child is in.