Selena Gomez has been battling a chronic autoimmune disease known as lupus. Lupus is a complex disease that affects various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and other organs. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs, causing inflammation and damage. This condition can lead to a wide range of symptoms, such as fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, hair loss, kidney problems, and more.
Why does lupus cause weight gain
Lupus itself does not directly cause weight gain. However, certain factors associated with lupus can contribute to weight gain in some individuals. One of the reasons is the use of corticosteroids as part of lupus treatment. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and control lupus flares. Unfortunately, one of the side effects of these medications is weight gain.
Corticosteroids can increase appetite, alter metabolism, and lead to the redistribution of fat in the body. This can result in weight gain, particularly in areas such as the face, abdomen, and back of the neck. Additionally, corticosteroids can cause fluid retention, further contributing to weight gain.
It is important to note that not all individuals with lupus experience weight gain, and the extent of weight gain can vary from person to person. Other factors, such as lifestyle, diet, and physical activity levels, can also influence weight changes in individuals with lupus.
Examples and Figures:
A study published in the journal Lupus in 2020 examined the impact of corticosteroid use on weight gain in patients with lupus. The results showed that long-term corticosteroid use was associated with increased body mass index (BMI) and weight gain. The study suggested that alternative treatment options should be considered to minimize corticosteroid use and its associated side effects, including weight gain.
Another study published in Arthritis Care & Research in 2019 investigated the prevalence and factors associated with weight gain in women with lupus. The findings revealed that younger age, higher disease activity, and longer duration of corticosteroid use were predictors of weight gain in this population.
8 Additional Questions:
1. How can weight gain be managed in individuals with lupus
2. Are there any alternative medications for lupus that do not cause weight gain
3. Does weight gain in lupus patients increase the risk of other health complications
4. Can exercise and physical activity help prevent or control weight gain in lupus
5. Are there any specific dietary recommendations for individuals with lupus-related weight gain
6. Are there any natural remedies or supplements that can help control lupus-induced weight gain
7. How does lupus-related weight gain affect self-esteem and body image
8. Can weight loss improve lupus symptoms and disease outcomes
Sources:
– Lupus. (2023). In MedlinePlus. Retrieved on July 5, 2023.
– Corticosteroids in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. (2021). In Lupus Science & Medicine.
– Wang, S., et al. (2020). Weight Gain in SLE Patients: A Cross-sectional Study on Risk Factors. In Arthritis Care & Research.
– Chaigne, B., et al. (2019). Weight Gain in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Treated by Long-term Glucocorticoid Therapy. In Lupus.