Several autoimmune diseases affect the body. It is still unclear why these diseases occur. Again, most of them display similarities in their manifestation. Today we are looking at lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. In particular, we will dwell on the difference in blood tests for lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that attacks several parts of the body. Its clinical manifestation differs according to the area it strikes. Lupus occurs when the body immune system produces autoantibodies. These antibodies do not differentiate between foreign invaders like germs, bacteria from cell bodies. As a result, rogue antibodies attack healthy body cells.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammation of the body joints. The body immune system produces antibodies that protect the body from bacteria and viruses. Apparently, some of these antibodies turn autoimmune or rogue and attack the joints. This damages the cartilage, and the joints swell with excruciating pain. Rheumatoid arthritis mostly attacks the hands and leg joints.
These two diseases are almost similar in nature. But a closer look displays some distinct differences. Lupus attacks joints and any other part of the body, including the internal organs. It can manifest with skin rashes, fever, and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis primarily attacks the joints. Unlike lupus, it attacks corresponding joints in the body. While rheumatoid arthritis deforms the joints, lupus does not.
Unlike in the doctor’s appointment, you do not need special preparation for the blood test for lupus. The doctor already has all the required information. On your part, you need to disclose all the medications that you take especially supplements and vitamins. Some medicines or food can distort the interpretation of the results.
The antinuclear antibody test or ANA is the most known blood test for lupus. It involves the taking of your blood sample for laboratory tests. The physician will tightly tie your hand slightly above the elbow. This swells the nerves for visibility. Is also makes the veins swell for more accessible blood collection. The doctor sterilizes the elbow with a surgical antiseptic. After that, he will insert a needle into the vein and collect blood into a tube. The doctor will remove the needle and bandage the area to stop further bleeding. Your blood sample is taken to the laboratory.
The blood test for lupus can be negative or positive. If negative, you have no antinuclear antibodies. A positive result means that you have antinuclear antibodies. The presence of antinuclear antibodies can also mean you have other autoimmune diseases. That means the doctor will order for more tests if a need arises. Most people who test positive to the antinuclear antibodies test end up will lupus. Negative results can also mean you have undisclosed autoimmune diseases. Extra checks can confirm the first test if it comes out inconclusive.
Some natural foods like omega-3 fatty acids, ginger, and turmeric are useful for lupus management. Intensive mind therapies through meditation are also helpful. For rheumatoid arthritis, changing your lifestyle is crucial. Apart from your diet, exercise, rest, and body meditation can also help. Omega fatty acids, Indian frankincense, turmeric, and cumin are vital ingredients in managing rheumatoid arthritis.
The clinical manifestations of lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are almost similar. Researchers are still grappling why the immune system turns to attack its tissues. Some recent blood tests for lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are revealing positive strides in science. It is the hope of many that an effective remedy will come out soon.
Doctor, author and fitness enthusiast, Ahmed Zayed, MD, is a surgery resident with a passion for helping people live a happy healthy life. He is the author of numerous health-related books and contributor to several medicine, health and wellbeing websites.
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