Lupus

Understanding Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects more than 1.5 million Americans, according to the Lupus Foundation of America. Normally, the immune system protects the body against foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria. In the case of a disease like lupus, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body and damages healthy tissues and organs. Lupus can cause problems with the kidneys, nervous system, blood vessels, and skin.

Lupus Types

There are different types of lupus, each of which causes different symptoms. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common type. It affects many different organs of the body, including the kidneys, lungs, brain, and arteries. Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) affects the skin. Neonatal lupus is a rare condition in pregnant women that causes the baby to be born with a rash, liver problems, and sometimes a heart defect.

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  General Symptoms

  People who have lupus often develop symptoms similar to that of the flu. They feel extremely tired. They have headaches and a fever, and their joints become swollen or painful. Because similar symptoms can occur with other diseases, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and thyroid problems, lupus can be difficult to diagnose. Its vague symptoms are also why lupus is sometimes called “the great imitator.”
  
  
  
  
  

  
  

  Joint Pain and Weakness

  More than 90 percent of people with lupus will experience joint pain and weakness, according to the Lupus Foundation of America. Most of that discomfort is caused by the inflammation that lupus triggers. Often people feel pain and stiffness in their joints, which is called lupus arthritis. Lupus can also weaken muscles, especially in the pelvis, thighs, shoulders, and upper arms. Additionally, the disease can trigger carpal tunnel syndrome, which leads to pain and numbness in the hands and fingers.

  
  
  
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  Disc-Shaped Rash

  Lupus that affects the skin (cutaneous lupus) comes in different forms, and causes different types of rashes. Discoid lupus occurs in people with chronic cutaneous lupus (CCLE). It produces a coin-shaped red, scaly rash on the cheeks, nose, and ears. The rash doesn’t itch or hurt, but once it fades, it may leave the skin discolored. If the rash is on the scalp, hair loss may occur. Sometimes hair loss may be permanent.