Lupus: common signs and how it is diagnosed
Lupus is an autoimmune disease whose symptoms vary from person to person. Learn the most common signs, and why diagnosis can take time.
Key takeaways
- Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys and blood.
- Tiredness, joint pain, a butterfly rash and sun sensitivity are common signs.
- Diagnosis combines symptoms, an examination and tests such as ANA.
- A symptom log and photos of a rash help your doctor a lot.
What is lupus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a long-term autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks different tissues, such as the skin, joints, kidneys and blood. Symptoms move between calm periods and flares.
The most common signs
- Severe tiredness that rest doesn't fix.
- Pain and swelling in the joints.
- A rash across the cheeks and nose shaped like a butterfly.
- Sensitivity to sunlight.
- Ulcers in the mouth or nose.
- Hair loss.
- Repeated fevers without a clear cause.
Why diagnosis can take time
Symptoms can appear one after another and look like other conditions. That's why it helps to log your symptoms with dates and keep photos of a rash that comes and goes.
How doctors diagnose it
A rheumatologist combines your symptoms, an examination and tests. A common test is antinuclear antibodies (ANA), which are positive in most people with lupus but can be positive in others too, plus more specific tests and urine and blood checks.
After the diagnosis
With treatment and regular follow-up, most people with lupus lead active lives. Follow-up helps catch any effect on the organs early.
References
Content is for medical awareness and does not replace medical advice. In an emergency, contact emergency services immediately.
