Diagnosing autoimmune diseases, including Lupus, cannot be done with a single test. Doctors may use a combination of various tests, both general and specific, based on the patient's medical history, symptoms, and previous physical examinations. The selection of tests also varies according to each patient's health history. General laboratory tests such as complete blood count, complete urine analysis, X-ray, ECG, and C-reactive protein (CRP) may be performed to determine any inflammation in...

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system cannot distinguish between foreign and normal cells. As a result, the body may attack its own normal cells. This disease is not contagious, chronic, and can affect various organs. According to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA), there are several types of autoimmune diseases, including Lupus, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Thyroid disease (Graves' Disease & Hashimoto's...

"GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and pain. While medication can help manage GERD symptoms, avoiding certain foods can also make a significant difference. Here are some fruits and vegetables to avoid if you have GERD.   Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are highly acidic and can irritate the esophagus. Instead, try...

As the temperature drops, so does our immune system's ability to fight off infections. This is why we often associate cold weather with the common cold. However, the link between the two is not as straightforward as we might think.   The common cold is caused by a virus, not by the cold weather itself. In fact, the virus responsible for the common cold thrives in warm, moist environments, such as the inside of our noses and throats. So why do we tend to get more colds during the winter mon...

Steroid inhalers are a type of medication used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They work by reducing inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe. These inhalers contain a type of steroid called a corticosteroid, which is different from the anabolic steroids used by athletes to build muscle. Corticosteroids are safe and effective when used as directed by a healthcare professional. It's important to use steroid inh...

Asthma is a disease that requires diagnosis by a healthcare professional. If you have symptoms such as wheezing, frequent coughing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, it is important to consult a doctor to determine whether these symptoms indicate asthma. In diagnosing asthma, doctors evaluate the existing symptoms, take a complete medical history, perform a physical examination, and review the results of supporting tests. Medical History Patients will be asked questions in...