Discoid lupus treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Discoid lupus treatment

Recommended health tests for Discoid lupus

At-Home Lab Test

Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device

Connective tissue test

$ 300

At-Home Lab Test

Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device

ENA test

$ 300

Shop all tests

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Discoid lupus

Discoid lupus is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the skin, leading to scaly, disk-shaped red patches that often result in scarring. It is a subtype of lupus erythematosus, more localized than its systemic counterpart, but can be just as distressing for those affected. While discoid lupus is less common than systemic lupus erythematosus, it still poses significant distress to those diagnosed, influencing both physical appearance and overall well-being. The prevalence of discoid lupus is challenging to pin down accurately due to its overlap with systemic lupus in some cases; however, it's estimated that about 10% of lupus patients have discoid lupus.

Causes

The exact cause of discoid lupus is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and possibly hormonal factors. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to inflammation and the characteristic lesions. Factors that may trigger or worsen the condition include exposure to UV light, smoking, certain medications, and infections.

Signs and symptoms

Red, scaly, disk-shaped lesions on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, and ears Lesions that may thicken and scar over time Hair loss and scalp lesions Skin discoloration after lesion healing Occasionally, lesions on non-sun-exposed areas Itching, pain, and discomfort in affected areas

Diagnosing Discoid lupus

Diagnosing discoid lupus requires a careful examination by a dermatologist or rheumatologist. A definitive diagnosis often involves a combination of a physical exam, medical history review, and laboratory tests, including skin biopsies. The biopsy can reveal characteristic patterns of inflammation and damage in the skin layers that are indicative of discoid lupus. Additional blood tests may be conducted to rule out systemic lupus erythematosus and other conditions with similar symptoms.

Prevention and natural treatment

Preventing discoid lupus largely involves minimizing exposure to known triggers such as sunlight and smoking. Patients are advised to use broad-spectrum sunscreens, wear protective clothing, and avoid sun exposure during peak hours. Quitting smoking is also crucial as it can exacerbate symptoms. In terms of treatment, functional medicine offers unique perspectives focused on addressing the root causes and utilizing natural interventions alongside conventional treatments. Nutritional therapy plays a fundamental role, emphasizing an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Supplements such as vitamin D, fish oil, and probiotics can also support immune regulation. Topical treatments include natural anti-inflammatory agents like aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula, which can aid in symptomatic relief and skin healing. Stress reduction through techniques such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi is advocated to manage the psychological impacts and potentially reduce flare-ups by lowering stress-related hormones. For systemic issues or more severe cases, conventional treatments like corticosteroids, antimalarials, and immunosuppressants may be necessary. However, these are typically used in conjunction with lifestyle and dietary changes to enhance overall health and reduce side effects. Functional medicine encourages a personalized approach, recognizing that each patient’s triggers, symptoms, and effective treatments can differ significantly. Working closely with a healthcare provider skilled in both conventional and functional medicine can offer the most comprehensive approach to managing discoid lupus, aiming not only for symptom control but also for long-term remission and improved quality of life.

Learn more