Could leaving sle untreated for over 6 yrs be risky and possibly fatal? the meds terrify me.

SLE: Hi, that depends on the activity and severity of the disease, as the disease is a chronic illness which can damage body organs including kidney and brain, I advise you to consult with a Rheumatologist, and remember although the medications all have side effects but if the benefits outweigh the risks then taking the medication is wise and advisable.

Well, that depends: On severity of SLE and your philosophy on life. If you are really honest with yourself, all of us have only one guarantee, and it is that life's a terminal condition. So whatever you do or don't do, ultimately you and I and everyone else will die. Will SLE end your life early? Very likely if you have multisystem organ involvement. Once damage is done it can't be undone. Prevention = drug treatment

Could be: As lupus can affect so many different organ systems, at times with irreversible effects. Treatment decisions should not be made without reasonable discussion with your rheumatologist.