Systemic lupus erythematosus (often simply called lupus) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body. Because lupus can manifest in so many different ways and its symptoms can mimic other conditions, getting a diagnosis can sometimes be a journey. Understanding the symptoms of lupus is the first step in seeking timely medical advice and managing this condition effectively. The symptoms of lupus are diverse and can vary significantly from person to person, making it crucial to be aware of the common signs.
Key Symptoms of Lupus
Lupus symptoms can be unpredictable; they may come and go, and new symptoms can emerge over time. The severity also ranges widely, from mild to debilitating. Many symptoms arise because lupus causes inflammation in various organs and tissues. Here are some of the key symptoms to watch out for:
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Joint Pain and Stiffness (Arthritis): Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints are very common in lupus. This arthritis often affects smaller joints in the hands, wrists, and feet, and morning stiffness can be pronounced.
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Persistent Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or exhausted, even after rest, is a significant symptom for many lupus patients. This fatigue can be overwhelming and impact daily life.
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Unexplained Fevers: Recurring or persistent low-grade fevers without an obvious cause like infection can be an indicator of lupus.
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Butterfly Rash (Malar Rash): A distinctive rash shaped like a butterfly across the cheeks and bridge of the nose is a hallmark symptom. However, not everyone with lupus develops this specific rash.
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Other Skin Rashes: Besides the butterfly rash, lupus can cause various other skin rashes, including raised, scaly patches anywhere on the body. Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) can trigger or worsen these rashes.
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Hair Loss: Lupus can lead to hair loss, which may be gradual thinning or more noticeable shedding.
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Mouth or Nose Sores: Painless sores or ulcers can develop in the mouth or nose, most commonly on the roof of the mouth.
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Raynaud’s Phenomenon: This condition causes the fingers and toes to change color (white, blue, then red) in response to cold or stress.
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Swollen Glands: Enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands) can occur in various parts of the body.
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Swelling (Edema): Fluid retention can cause swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or around the eyes.
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Chest Pain with Deep Breathing (Pleurisy): Inflammation of the lining around the lungs (pleurisy) or heart (pericarditis) can cause chest pain, especially when breathing deeply or lying down.
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Neurological Symptoms: Lupus can affect the brain and nervous system, leading to headaches, dizziness, depression, confusion, seizures, or memory problems.
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Abdominal Pain: Inflammation can affect the digestive system, causing abdominal pain.
Lupus and Organ Involvement
Beyond these general symptoms, lupus inflammation can impact major organs, sometimes leading to serious complications:
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Kidney Problems (Lupus Nephritis): Lupus can damage the kidneys, leading to impaired kidney function and potentially kidney failure. This is known as lupus nephritis.
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Brain and Central Nervous System Issues: As mentioned earlier, lupus can affect the brain and central nervous system, causing a range of neurological and psychiatric symptoms.
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Heart Complications: Lupus can cause inflammation of different parts of the heart, including:
- Heart valve damage: Inflammation can lead to scarring and damage to the heart valves.
- Pericarditis: Inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart.
- Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle itself.
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Vasculitis: Inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis) can occur in lupus, affecting blood flow to various organs.
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Blood Clots: People with lupus are at higher risk of developing blood clots due to the presence of certain antibodies (antiphospholipid antibodies).
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Low Blood Cell Counts: Lupus can cause a decrease in red blood cells (anemia), white blood cells (leukopenia), and platelets (thrombocytopenia).
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Lung Problems (Pleurisy): Inflammation of the lining of the lungs (pleurisy) is a common lung complication, making breathing painful.
Lupus and Cardiovascular Risks
Long-term inflammation from lupus increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is because lupus can contribute to:
- Atherosclerosis: The buildup of plaque in the arteries, narrowing and hardening them.
- Coronary Artery Disease: Atherosclerosis specifically affecting the arteries that supply blood to the heart, potentially leading to heart attack.
Recognizing the diverse symptoms of lupus is crucial for early diagnosis and management. If you experience a combination of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage lupus symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
