The reasons are multifactorial: chronic inflammation damages blood vessel walls, corticosteroid use raises cholesterol and blood pressure, lupus-specific antibodies (particularly antiphospholipid antibodies) increase clotting risk, and the metabolic disruption caused by both the disease and its treatments creates a perfect storm for atherosclerosis
If constipation occurs, increasing water intake and adding fiber-rich vegetables (when appetite allows) resolves it without medication in most cases
J Invest Dermatol (2012) 132(7):186976
Apps that provide context alongside data, explaining what's normal, when to adjust, and what patterns signal problems , help you take action instead of remaining a mere observer
Genital tract infections, affecting approximately 10-15% of women and less frequently in men, are another potential adverse effect ( Skin infections, such as Fourniers gangrene, have been reported