Nightmares and hallucinations could be early indicators of autoimmune diseases like lupus, potentially enhancing early detection and treatment, as per a recent study.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge and King’s College London have discovered that an increase in nightmares and hallucinations might signal the onset of autoimmune diseases such as lupus. Recognizing these mental health and neurological symptoms early is crucial as they may indicate an impending ‘flare,’ a temporary intensification of the disease.
In a study published in eClinicalMedicine, researchers surveyed individuals living with lupus and clinicians, finding that disrupted dream sleep was a common symptom, with some experiencing it up to a year before the onset of lupus. Hallucinations were also reported, often occurring around the onset of the disease or later.
The study highlighted the significance of discussing symptoms like nightmares and hallucinations with patients to improve care and potentially prevent disease flares. Early recognition of these signs may serve as an ‘early warning system’ for healthcare providers, leading to enhanced treatment outcomes for patients with autoimmune diseases like lupus.
Vocabulary List:
- Indicators (noun): Things that point to or suggest something.
- Autoimmune (adjective): Relating to a condition where the immune system attacks the body.
- Enhancing (verb): Improving or increasing something.
- Detection (noun): Discovering or finding somethingespecially through examination.
- Neurological (adjective): Relating to the brainnervesor nervous system.
- Intensification (noun): The process of making something stronger or more extreme.
