Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks your own body. According to the Mayo Clinic, inflammation caused by lupus can affect your joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart and lungs. In addition, there are four types of lupus that all have similar symptoms: systemic lupus erythematosus, discoid lupus erythematosus, drug-induced erythematosus and neonatal lupus. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment can allow you to lead a normal life. Do not hesitate to see your doctor if you notice these early symptoms of lupus.
Skin Symptoms
Lupus classically causes early symptoms affecting the skin. According to Medline Plus, lupus may cause a "butterfly" rash over the cheeks and bridge of the nose in half of patients. This rash gets worse with sunlight and may be widespread. In addition, you may notice that your skin color is red and patchy or you may develop mouth sores. This occurs because your body's immune system attacks skin cells that can lead to these symptoms. Let your doctor know if you experience an unusual butterfly rash or other skin symptoms.
Cardiovascular System Symptoms
According to Medline Plus, chest pain and heart arrhythmia are early symptoms of lupus. In lupus, these symptoms occur because your immune system attacks heart tissue. Many other diseases share these serious symptoms. Seek immediate treatment if you have heart trouble.
Gastrointestinal System Symptoms
Lupus may cause early symptoms of your gastrointestinal system. According to Medline Plus, lupus may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and weight loss or gain. Many other diseases can have these similar symptoms. Consulting a doctor early is important in order to begin timely treatment of this disease.
Musculoskeletal System Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, you may notice joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Your fingers and toes may turn blue when exposed to cold air. In addition, you may also notice joint aching that has not resolved. In most cases, your doctor will suspect an autoimmune disease if you are experiencing these symptoms in multiple joints. Therefore, be specific when talking to your doctor about your early musculoskeletal system symptoms.
Nervous System Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic states that early symptoms of lupus may include fatigue, anxiety, depression and memory loss. These symptoms may be psychological effects of having the many symptoms of this disease. Many patients overlook the importance of dealing with these symptoms. Therefore, let your doctor know if you are having psychological difficulty handling the symptoms of lupus.
