SPEAKER: Lupus can damage
any part of your body,
and over 90% of adults who get
it are women.
Here are some facts about lupus.
This long-term disease often
strikes during your childbearing
years.
Your lupus has to be
under control for six months
before considering pregnancy,
but you can have
a safe pregnancy when you work
closely with your doctor.
Concerned lupus may be
contagious?
Don't worry.
It's not.
Experts don't know for sure what
causes it, but it starts when
something makes
your immune system go haywire
and attack healthy parts
of your body.
Only your doctor can tell you
if you have lupus,
but about a third
of people with it
get a butterfly-shaped rash
on their face.
Other common symptoms are
stiff, painful joints,
achy or weak muscles,
and fatigue.
If you have lupus, treatments
can help you feel better.
Remember, rest when you need to,
and try to manage your stress.