Systemic lupus erthyematosus is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when an individual's body and organs are attacked by his own immune system. An individual with lupus can have flare-ups as well as periods when the disease is in remission. More women than men are diagnosed with lupus and the Lupus Foundation of America estimates that five million people worldwide have lupus. Lupus affects many parts of the body and the disease process can range from mild to severe. Different medications are used to treat and manage symptoms so individuals with lupus can lead active lives.
Fatigue
Fatigue proves a common complaint in a large percentage of individuals with lupus. According to the Lupus Foundation of Colorado, the exact cause of fatigue remains unknown. Even when the disease in remission, individuals with lupus still report a high degree of fatigue. Medications and getting adequate amounts of rest and exercise can help manage fatigue related to lupus.
Rash
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that three-fourths of patients with lupus will suffer from skin problems. Many individuals will develop a butterfly-shaped rash, also called a malar rash, on the nose that extends to the cheeks and the forehead. However, the rash can also appear on other parts of the body. The rashes are photosensitive and the Lupus Foundation of America, Inc recommends staying out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., wearing sunscreen and protective clothing and limiting exposure to fluorescent lights. Patients can treat rashes with topical steroids lotions or oral steroid medications.
Raynaud's Phenomenon
Characterized by the tips of the fingers turning blue, white or red when exposed to cold temperatures, Raynaud's phenomenon can also cause pain, numbness and tingling in the fingertips. The Lupus foundation of America states that Raynaud's phenomenon occurs when the blood vessels become inflamed and spasm. Treatment for Raynaud's phenomenon includes avoiding cold temperatures and wearing gloves when avoiding cold temperatures isn't possible.
Joint Pain
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, joint pain remains the most common symptom of lupus and occurs in 90 percent of patients. Joint pain ranges from mild to severe and often occurs in the morning, but improves as the day progresses. The length of time the pain persists proves different in each patient, but can last from days to months. Aspirin, ibuprofen, anti-malarial drugs and immunosuppressants can help to manage joint pain and inflammation.
Mood Changes
Lupus can cause depression, anxiety and other psychiatric symptoms. Whether or not these changes result from the disease itself, medications taken to control symptoms or the emotional toll the disease has on patient's remains unclear. Changes in personality can come on rapidly or develop over time. Physicians use antidepressants to manage psychiatric symptoms.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms of lupus include fever, weight loss or gain, hair loss, chest pain, mouth and nose ulcers, shortness of breath and memory loss.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of lupus is based on current symptoms, laboratory results and medical history. The Lupus Research Institute states that doctors use eleven criteria to diagnosis lupus including presence of a malar rash, raised red patches on the skin, development of rashes due to photosensitivity, painless mouth or nose ulcers, pain and tenderness or swelling in two or more joints. Other criteria include inflammation of the lining of the heart or lungs, seizures or psychosis, excessive protein in the urine, decreased white blood cell or platelet count, presence of certain antibodies in the blood and positive ANA result from an (antinuclear antibodies) test.
