Usually, the body’s immune system can identify diseases and bacteria that it regards correctly as ‘foreign invaders’. When it senses these invaders, the body will generally attack and destroy them effectively. With lupus, the immune system is confused and unable to distinguish between healthy cells and germs or viruses. It mistakes parts of the body as foreign and releases proteins called autoantibodies that attack healthy cells. The skin, muscles, and joints are most commonly affected. In severe cases, lupus disease can cause damage to the brain, lungs, kidneys, and heart.
Lupus causes pain, inflammation, rashes, and swelling (though not necessarily all of these). As there is no cure, treatment focuses on control - protecting the body’s organs and relieving symptoms.
Statistics show that around one in 900 people in New Zealand contract lupus. Maori, Pacifica, and Asian people are more likely to be affected than Caucasians, and women are ten times more susceptible than men. Lupus can develop at any age but is more common between the ages of 20 and 45.
Some people are born with a genetic tendency towards developing lupus. The disease can be triggered by lifestyle and environmental situations, including the stress of giving birth, divorce, illness, surgery, traumatic injury, certain drugs, or sunlight. Though gene analysis continues to advance tremendously, the specific causes of many autoimmune disorders persist in challenging the medical profession.
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The quotes you get through Policywise are the same as buying direct. The insurers we partner with pay us a fee for our service. This fee is directly related to any insurance cover you take out through us and includes the support and claims servicing we supply (free of charge) for the life of your cover.
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If you would like some quotes or need help with anything, talk to a Policywise adviser. A quick chat with one of our licensed advisers can assure you of a path forward that offers the best medical care in the shortest time possible.
A physical examination along with a suite of comprehensive laboratory tests will lead to an accurate lupus diagnosis. The tests include one or more of the following:
Blood and urine analysis
Echocardiogram
Biopsy
Prompt, professional care significantly improves your ability to manage lupus in New Zealand. Once diagnosed, your doctor will advise you of the treatments available, and explain the relative benefits and risks involved. A plan tailored to your symptoms will be devised; because those symptoms might fluctuate, your doctor will possibly recommend changing your medication or varying the dosage occasionally.
The medications most commonly used to manage lupus are:
Now is the time to think about investing in private health insurance cover that will give you or someone you love the most outstanding support possible in the event of an illness such as lupus.
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Some health insurance policies also include additional consultations with specialists who may offer second opinions, other drug options, and supplementary advice about your treatment plans. That’s priceless when dealing with all the questions that will undoubtedly come up over time.
Our 5-star reviews are a testament to how well we look after everyone who takes out cover through us. Get in touch today! We look forward to helping you experience the crystal clarity and peace of mind of knowing you have chosen the best private insurance policy for you and your loved ones.
Make the right lifestyle adjustments
If you have lupus, there are simple things you can do to help prevent flare-ups:
If you find you have lupus, there are things you can do to feel more confident about dealing with the disease:
Not all health insurers are the same. We can help you sort out the duds, avoid the lemons, understand the fine print and exclusions, and get the best insurance for you and your family.
Taking out healthcare insurance will avoid delays in diagnosis and protect you from costs related to diagnostic tests. Whatever your health situation, an insurance plan will help you: