**Interview with Dr. Li Min: The Dangers of Lupus from the Emergency Room Perspective**

In a recent attention-grabbing case on social media, a 42-year-old woman from Changsha was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to a life-threatening condition associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. Dr. Li Min, Deputy Chief Physician of the Emergency Department at Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, shed light on this troubling case and provided vital insights into the disease.

**Q: Can you walk us through the patient’s situation?**

Dr. Li: Certainly. This patient had been struggling with systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis for over ten years. She came to our emergency department experiencing severe abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and extreme fatigue. Additionally, she had noticed a significant decrease in urination and had been constipated for five days. After receiving treatment at a local facility without improvement, she was referred to us.

**Q: What did the tests show when she arrived?**

Dr. Li: Upon her arrival, we conducted a thorough evaluation and discovered her blood potassium levels were critically high at 8.7 millimoles per liter, which poses a serious risk of cardiac arrest. Our team quickly took action to lower her potassium levels and address the underlying infection. Fortunately, we managed to stabilize her, and she was subsequently transferred to the ICU for further care.

**Q: What did the follow-up examinations reveal?**

Dr. Li: Additional imaging tests indicated concerning signs, including free air in her abdominal cavity, pelvic fluid accumulation, and renal atrophy. Her condition was dire, prompting us to perform a minimally invasive surgery to repair a perforation we found in her small intestine, along with dealing with significant complications related to infected fluid.

**Q: How do you view the broader implications of lupus as a condition?**

Dr. Li: Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can impact various organs—such as the skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, and nervous system. Unfortunately, it is often misunderstood because of its name; it’s not contagious and goes beyond skin issues. The disease can lead to serious complications, and it chiefly affects women of childbearing age, with approximately 90% of cases occurring in females aged 18 to 40.

**Q: What symptoms should individuals be aware of when it comes to lupus?**

Dr. Li: People should stay alert for a variety of symptoms, including skin lesions, fatigue, weight loss, joint pain, kidney problems, shortness of breath, and even neurological issues. If someone experiences several symptoms affecting different systems—especially young women—they should seek medical advice without delay.

**Q: What guidance do you have for those living with lupus?**

Dr. Li: In addition to medication, effective self-management is essential. Patients should practice sun protection, engage in moderate exercise, avoid smoking and alcohol, and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamin D, as low levels can worsen inflammation. Regular check-ups and adherence to medical advice can significantly enhance their quality of life and longevity.

It’s critical for anyone experiencing concerning symptoms to reach out to a healthcare professional promptly. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many lupus patients can lead fulfilling lives, similar to those without the condition.