10/22/2007 - Daily
Uncovering the Secrets of Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that can cause both serious and life-threatening problems in vital areas like the heart, blood, and brain. According to the Lupus Foundation of America there are approximately 1.5 - 2 million Americans who have a form of lupus, but the actual number may be higher, this is the scary part! While there is no cure, there are treatments such as Plaquanil, DHEA, and Prednisone.

Many of us don’t truly understand the seriousness of this illness, but Susan Manzi M.D., M.P.H., a world-renowned expert at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, joins Andrew to discuss this condition. Nicole Carter who was diagnosed at age 21 and is a Mother of three shares her everyday experiences and offers hope for others living with this illness. Nicole shares her challenges in dealing with her condition and Dr. Manzi answers Andrew's questions about the symptoms of the disease, current treatment, research and the outlook for finding a cure.

Learn more about types of lupus, some of the triggers, such as pregnancy, as well as potential complications of this condition. Dr. Manzi also explains why lupus is so difficult to diagnose and what tests you should be asking your rheumatologist for. She also discusses the genetic implications of lupus and where you can get support in your community for yourself and your family and loved ones.

Guests: