Symptom 14: Cardiovascular Disease – A Stealthy Foe
Cardiovascular disease is a major concern for individuals with lupus, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Lupus patients are at a significantly higher risk for cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke.
These conditions may present as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or in severe cases, a heart attack or stroke. The increased risk is due to a combination of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, lupus-related factors such as inflammation and autoantibodies, and side effects of certain medications.
Preventing cardiovascular disease in lupus involves managing traditional risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, along with controlling lupus disease activity. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and smoking cessation are crucial components of cardiovascular risk management.
The risk of cardiovascular disease in lupus is a stark reminder of the far-reaching effects of this disease, extending beyond the joints and skin to impact vital organs like the heart and brain. (14)
