Discoid Lupus is a condition that body’s immune system attacks its own tissue this in turn causes the skin to inflame and will be damaged as a result .The rash is more common in the summer months, as it tends to flare up in response to sun exposure.  With this in mind the use of protective sun wear such as hats and the application of sunscreen is very helpful preventing more damage to the skin.

There are several types of lupus :discoid lupus erythematosus  and systemic lupus erythematosus Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) is a condition which generally affects only the skin and is less severe than systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) which can also affect kidneys ,eyes, lungs and joints. Another form of the disease is subacute cutaneous lupus(SCLE) this is a milder form and is similar to psoriasis.

discoid lupus

DLE can usually be successfully controlled using medication and by avoiding exposure to direct sunlight.

The symptoms of discoid lupus are the skin becomes red and scally sores which are round in there appearance.

The symptoms of SLE can range from mild to severe even mild cases of SLE can have a big impact on a persons quality of life as it may cause pain and fatigue and this leads to feelings of depression.

Thanks to advances in treatments, now most people with SLE have a normal, or near normal, life expectancy both these diseases are more common in women The condition can be difficult to diagnose as there are many other common conditions with similar symptoms. Diets play a part in the control of the disease a low calorie, low fat diet with small amounts of saturated fat is recommended.Have plenty of green raw and steamed vegetables, chicken, and fish.

Eating oily fish such as salmon or sardines packed in sardine oil three times a week helps to fight inflammation and heal the skin manifestations of lupus. drink plenty of water this keeps your body hydrated which is essential in having healthy skin. Try to avoid such foods as tomatoes and peppers .Eliminate from your diet animal fats and oils high in omega-6 oils, such as corn, safflower, and sunflower oils. These promote inflammation.

Medication also plays a big part in the fight against Discoid Lupus and SLE Hydroxychloroquine is a medicine previously used to treat malaria but is also effective in treating some of the symptoms of SLE, such as skin rashes, joint and muscle pain and fatigue it helps to prevent flare-ups and to prevent development of more serious problems from lupus. Immunosuppressants are a type of medicine that suppress your immune system this kind  of medication is usually only prescribed if you have severe SLE. Even ibuprofen is used as an anti-inflammatory .

Often, a person with discoid can control the severity of his or her lesions by applying cortisone ointment or having a physician administer cortisone injections. Injections are usually the more effective option. Also, creams that are calcineurin inhibitors will assist in treating lesions, such as pimecrolimus cream and tacrolimus ointment.