Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) is a disease that causes your body’s immune system to attack its own cells and tissues. It causes periods of inflammation to various parts of the body. It can affect your joints, tendons, and skin. It can affect blood vessels. And it can affect organs, such as the kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain.

Parents need to realize the rational part of a teen’s brain isn’t fully developed and won’t be until they are 25 years old or so.