Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are both autoimmune disorders. Rheumatoid arthritis is often associated with the joints, especially the hands and fingers. There are several different types of lupus. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common form or the disease. Lupus is often associated with the skin. Both diseases, according to the National Institutes of Health, are more prevalent in women than men. Lupus is most common in African American, Native American, Hispanic and Asian women.
How Autoimmune Diseases Affect the Body
With autoimmune disorders immune system believes that organs and tissues in the body are foreign invaders and attacks those tissues, just as they would a virus or bacteria. Which organs are affected depends entirely on the nature of the autoimmune disease. Because the entire immune system is involved, an autoimmune disorder may not stay confined to one area of the body. For example, rheumatoid arthritis primarily attacks the joints but can also affect the eyes, mouth and lungs. Lupus may present on the skin but can also affect the kidneys and other internal organs.
Symptoms Common to Lupus
The most common symptom of Lupus is the characteristic "butterfly" rash on the face. The rash usually appears on both sides of the face, and across the nose, like a mask. Not all people with lupus have the butterfly rash but may have other skin problems. Some people with lupus develop rashes and blisters after exposure to direct sunlight. They may also experience muscle pain, joint pain, fevers, fatigue and headaches. Lupus is difficult to diagnose and some patients go years before getting a definite diagnosis.
Symptoms Common to Rheumatoid Arthritis
The most common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is bilateral joint pain, usually in the wrists and hands. Bilateral means "both sides" and, unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis always affects both sides of the body at the same time. People with rheumatoid arthritis may also experience weakness, fatigue and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, the joints become swollen and stiff and may become deformed. There are several different tests designed to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms Common to Both
Both lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint pain, muscle pain and fatigue. However, in general, rheumatoid arthritis will start in the joints and other symptoms, like fatigue, may follow. In general, lupus starts on the skin and other symptoms, like joint pain, may follow. Also, rheumatoid arthritis usually does not cause a rash and lupus does not usually cause weakness. In any event, if you suspect you may have either condition, contact a medical professional.
Treatments to Relieve the Symptoms
Doctors may prescribe immunosuppresant drugs to treat either condition. They may also prescribe pain killers and dietary and lifestyle changes to help combat many of the symptoms. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep and stress management all support the immune system and may reduce the severity and duration of the symptoms. Some rheumatoid arthritis patients also respond well to massage therapy.
