What causes low blood counts in lupus?
Low blood counts are very common in lupus, affecting different types of blood cells. About 50-60% of people with lupus experience leukopenia, which means having fewer white blood cells overall.
Lupus can cause low blood counts in several ways:
* Your immune system may mistakenly attack Show Full Answer
What causes low blood counts in lupus?
Low blood counts are very common in lupus, affecting different types of blood cells. About 50-60% of people with lupus experience leukopenia, which means having fewer white blood cells overall.
Lupus can cause low blood counts in several ways:
* Your immune system may mistakenly attack and destroy blood cells
* Chronic inflammation from lupus can affect how your bone marrow makes new cells
* Some lupus medications, like immunosuppressants or NSAIDs, can lower blood cell production
* Kidney disease related to lupus may contribute to anemia
Types of low blood counts in lupus:
* Anemia (low red blood cells) - affects about 50% of people with lupus, causing fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath
* Leukopenia (low white blood cells) - affects 50-60% of people, making you more prone to infections
* Neutropenia (low neutrophils, a specific white blood cell) - affects 20-40% of people
* Thrombocytopenia (low platelets) - affects 20-40% of people, leading to easy bruising or bleeding
Your doctor will monitor these through regular complete blood count (CBC) tests. Treatment depends on which blood cells are affected and may include adjusting medications, adding supplements, or treating the underlying lupus inflammation.
Regular blood work is important to catch these changes early and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
January 29
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