Coconut Grove, FL

Frequently Asked Questions

• What Is Gout, and Is It an Autoimmune Disease?

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to painful joint swelling. It is not an autoimmune disease, as it results from metabolic issues rather than the immune system attacking healthy tissues.

• What Lifestyle Changes Help Manage Gout and Autoimmune Diseases?

Lifestyle changes that help manage gout and autoimmune diseases include reducing purine-rich foods like red meat, seafood, and alcohol, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular exercise. These habits can help lower uric acid levels, reduce flare-ups, and improve overall health. For autoimmune diseases, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, managing stress, and getting quality sleep support immune function. Avoiding processed foods and excessive sugar also helps control inflammation. These changes promote joint health, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being.

• Can Lupus Be Cured?

Lupus currently has no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. It is a long-term autoimmune condition in which the immune system targets healthy tissues, causing organ damage and inflammation. While some individuals experience remission, ongoing treatment with medications like anti-inflammatories, immunosuppressants, and lifestyle changes is essential to controlling flare-ups. Early diagnosis and proper management can reduce complications, allowing many people with lupus to lead active lives despite the disease’s unpredictable nature.

• What Happens if Lupus Is Left Untreated?

If lupus is left untreated, it can cause serious complications, including kidney failure, heart disease, lung inflammation, and neurological issues like seizures or stroke (Mayo Clinic, 2022). Chronic inflammation can damage vital organs, increasing the risk of infections and blood clotting disorders. Joint pain and fatigue may worsen, significantly affecting daily life. Without proper management, lupus can become life-threatening. Early diagnosis and treatment help control symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and prevent long-term organ damage, improving the overall quality of life.