10 Signs of Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disorder characterized by its chronic nature and its impact on various bodily systems, leading to a diverse spectrum of symptoms. Predominantly affecting women aged 15 to 45, Lupus does not, however, exclude men and children from diagnosis. It is known that the immune system in individuals with Lupus fails to differentiate between normal tissue and external threats, resulting in the production of auto-antibodies that attack and damage essential tissues. Clinically, the disease's trajectory is noted for alternating cycles of exacerbation and remission, with flare-ups giving way to phases of minimal to no symptoms. Despite advancements in medicine, the intricate mechanisms of Lupus remain incompletely understood.

1. Skin Rash

One hallmark symptom of lupus is a distinctive facial rash that typically spreads across the cheeks and nose in a butterfly pattern. This rash, often a telltale indicator of a lupus flare-up, can be exacerbated by sunlight exposure, although it is not the sole trigger. Commonly associated with lupus, the butterfly rash is just one manifestation of the disease; patients may also develop non-itchy skin lesions on other parts of the body. Less commonly, lupus can cause hives and increase sensitivity to light.

2. Extreme Fatigue

Fatigue is a prevalent symptom among individuals with lupus, affecting approximately 90% of those diagnosed with the condition. Notably, this exhaustion is not necessarily linked to physical or mental activities—patients often feel a persistent sense of tiredness regardless of their level of exertion or amount of sleep. Medical professionals are currently unable to fully explain the direct cause of fatigue in lupus patients. Moreover, fatigue tends to continue even after other more intense lupus symptoms abate following a flare-up.

3. Unexplained Fevers

Lupus is an autoimmune condition that may manifest as persistent low-grade fevers, typically not exceeding 101 degrees Fahrenheit, which could signal the onset of the disease. Such fevers, without accompanying symptoms, are often overlooked, leading to delayed medical consultations. Nevertheless, fevers stem from various sources, predominantly as a defensive mechanism against infections. In the case of autoimmune disorders such as lupus, the body erroneously targets its own tissues, causing inflammation and fever. It is imperative for individuals experiencing recurring fevers to seek prompt medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.

4. Hair Loss

Lupus can lead to hair loss caused by scalp inflammation, typically resulting in a gradual thinning and diminished vitality of hair strands. In some individuals, hair might be shed in significant amounts. Experiencing hair loss that exceeds the normal average of 100 strands per day warrants a professional medical assessment. Scalp lesions associated with lupus can also inhibit hair growth. However, many patients notice hair regrowth with the commencement of appropriate lupus treatment.

5. Renal Problems

Over 40% of individuals with lupus are affected by nephritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the renal tubules responsible for blood filtration and urine production. This inflammation is a result of an autoimmune attack, impairing the kidneys' ability to filter blood and excrete waste effectively. Symptoms of nephritis may include hematuria (blood in the urine), hypertension, edema in the extremities, and unilateral body pain. Early stages of nephritis may present with mild symptoms, but early and appropriate intervention is critical to circumvent severe outcomes, such as renal failure.

6. Changes in Metabolism

In certain instances, individuals with lupus may experience thyroid dysfunction, leading to an altered metabolic rate due to the pivotal role of thyroid hormones in metabolism regulation. Typical manifestations of thyroid impairment include unanticipated weight fluctuations, dryness of the skin and hair, constipation, depressive symptoms, cold intolerance, fatigue, and emotional instability. These symptoms are indicative of the thyroid's compromised ability to maintain its regulatory functions.

7. Raynaud's Phenomenon

Raynaud's phenomenon is commonly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, characterized by a narrowing of small blood vessels particularly in the extremities, such as fingers and toes, and sometimes the nose. This condition triggers discoloration of the affected areas when exposed to cold temperatures or stress, leading them to appear white, blue, or grey, followed by red upon reheating. While this vascular symptom can be indicative of lupus, it is not exclusive to it; various other medical conditions, including but not limited to thyroid dysfunctions, hematologic disorders, and pulmonary hypertension, can also present Raynaud's phenomenon.

8. Chest Pains and Labored Breath

Individuals with lupus may encounter pulmonary complications, including inflammation of the lungs and diaphragm, which often results in chest pain during breathing and may cause shortness of breath. It is imperative for anyone experiencing recurrent chest pain or respiratory difficulties to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate care.

9. Joint Aches and Inflammation

Lupus, characterized by its potential to incite systemic inflammation, can often manifest with joint pain and swelling. Accurate diagnosis of this rheumatological inflammation poses challenges, particularly in aging populations where such symptoms may overlap with conditions such as arthritis. However, clinicians tend to investigate lupus as a prospective cause more readily in younger and middle-aged individuals presenting with joint discomfort.

10. Other Signs and Symptoms

Lupus manifests in numerous symptoms beyond the commonly known ones, encompassing complications such as gastrointestinal issues, myalgia (muscle pain), osteoporosis, anemia, seizures, and depression. The presentations of lupus can be transient and variable, with symptoms altering over time. Physicians are inclined to suspect lupus when a patient presents with a spectrum of symptoms rather than an isolated manifestation. It is crucial for patients to communicate all symptoms, even those that might seem unrelated, to their healthcare provider to facilitate accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of lupus.