Photo Credit: yezry / iStockPhoto.com
5. Kidney Disease
This affects about 30 – 50 percent of sufferers. Kidney failure is the most serious consequence of lupus and, along with infection, is the leading cause of death. Inflammation in the kidneys usually has no symptoms until actual kidney failure develops, which is why regular urine tests are important to detect early kidney disease.
The urine test will detect blood and protein in the urine. A biopsy of the kidney may then be performed to determine the extent of the disease. Aggressive therapy is required to prevent kidney failure. Early kidney failure is associated with urinating lots and drinking more. High blood pressure can also occur.
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is the leading cause of infertility in women. Learn more about the symptoms, prevention, and treatment options for PCOS.
