Gastrointestinal Problems
Gastrointestinal problems, including heartburn, are also symptoms of lupus. In addition, the patient may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcer. Since this is another body function affected by the medications for lupus treatment, the patient has to take more medications. The doctor may prescribe OTC antacids for acid indigestion or occasional heartburn but can also add antacids and other gastrointestinal medication to the lupus treatment plan.
If the acid reflux and heartburn continue for more than two weeks, the patient needs to talk with their doctor because the conditions could be due to a more severe illness.
A lupus patient must understand that the disease can attack any body part. However, if it attacks the gastrointestinal (GI) system, it can attack the esophagus, gallbladders, bile ducts, pancreas, liver, intestines, and stomach. It is difficult for the healthcare provider to determine whether lupus directly causes complications with the GI system or the side effect of the medications. It could also be due to a malfunctioning organ due to inflammation caused by lupus. Therefore, the success of a treatment plan for lupus depends on cooperating and working closely with a team of doctors.
