LUPUS
alias Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Symptoms of Lupus

Although there are many possible manifestations of lupus, those listed below are some of the more common. Lupus is a disease which can present many different facets, rarely do two people have exactly the same symptoms, and these can vary from just one to many.

• Joint aches and pains
  
  
• Headaches, migraine
  
  
• Permanent rash over cheeks
  
  
• Kidney problems
  
  
• Extreme fatigue and weakness
  
  
• Oral ulcer
  
  
• Increased risk of miscarriage
  
  
• Hair loss
  
  
• Rashes from sunlight
  
  
• Depression
  
  
• Recurring flu-like symptoms and/or night sweats
  
  
• Inflammation of the tissues covering internal organs with associated chest and abdominal pain
  
  
• Poor blood circulation causing the tips of fingers and toes to turn white then blue on exposure to cold - Raynaud’s Phenomenon
  
  
• Haematological disorders including anaemia
  
  
• Seizures, mental illness or other cerebral problems
  
  

The treatment of Lupus

There is at present no cure for lupus but careful monitoring of the disease and a treatment programme with medication adjusted as appropriate enables the condition to be controlled, most patients being able to live a normal life span. The majority of lupus patients are in the ongoing care of their rheumatologists, and other specialists may also have involvement from time to time.

©Andy Taylor. Last updated 13 Mar 2001