Some people experience classic, well-known symptoms of lupus, while others have more subtle or uncommon signs that make diagnosis difficult. This article will explore 10 signs of lupus and treatment options, like Lupkynis.
Common Signs of Lupus
1. Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of lupus, affecting up to 90% of patients. It’s more than just being tired; it’s an overwhelming sense of exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest. For people with lupus, fatigue can be debilitating and often worsens after physical or mental activity.
2. Joint Pain and Swelling
Lupus often causes joint pain, stiffness and swelling, particularly in the hands, wrists and knees. The symptoms can mimic arthritis, causing discomfort that’s especially noticeable in the morning. If these symptoms persist without injury or other known causes, they could indicate lupus.
3. Butterfly Rash
A distinctive sign of lupus is the “butterfly rash," a red, butterfly-shaped rash that appears across the cheeks and nose. This rash often appears or worsens after exposure to sunlight. However, not everyone with lupus develops this rash, and when it does appear, it can vary in severity.
4. Photosensitivity
Many lupus patients are sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light, which can cause skin rashes or worsen existing lupus symptoms. Sun exposure may lead to more severe flare-ups of fatigue, joint pain and other symptoms. If you notice an unusual reaction to sunlight, it could be a sign of lupus.
5. Mouth and Nose Sores
Painless sores in the mouth or nose are another common symptom of lupus. These ulcers often appear during flare-ups and can last for days or weeks. Though they are not usually painful, their recurrence is a signal that something might be wrong.
Uncommon Signs of Lupus
6. Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Raynaud’s phenomenon occurs when the fingers and toes turn white or blue in response to cold or stress. This is due to spasms in the blood vessels, reducing circulation to the extremities. Once warmed, the affected areas often turn red as the blood flow returns. While Raynaud’s can occur on its own, it’s also associated with autoimmune conditions like lupus.
7. Neurological Issues
Lupus can affect the brain and nervous system, leading to a range of neurological symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, memory problems and even seizures. Some people with lupus experience cognitive dysfunction, commonly referred to as “lupus fog," which affects concentration and memory.
8. Pleuritis and Pericarditis (Chest Pain)
Lupus can cause inflammation in the lining around the lungs (pleuritis) or the heart (pericarditis), leading to sharp chest pain. The pain worsens when breathing deeply, coughing or lying down. Although it can be mistaken for other heart or lung conditions, it’s a serious lupus-related issue that requires medical attention.
9. Kidney Problems (Lupus Nephritis)
An uncommon but serious complication of lupus is lupus nephritis, which causes inflammation in the kidneys. Symptoms include swelling in the legs, high blood pressure and foamy urine. Unfortunately, kidney problems don’t always cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages, so regular monitoring is critical for lupus patients.
10. Fever Without Infection
Low-grade fevers are a subtle but uncommon sign of lupus. These fevers, usually between 98.5°F and 101°F, occur without any apparent infection or cause. They tend to come and go and are a result of the body’s inflammatory response to lupus.
Treatment Options for Lupus
Lupus is a chronic disease with no cure, but many treatment options can help manage symptoms and prevent serious complications.
For patients with lupus nephritis, one of the more severe complications of lupus, a newer treatment option called Lupkynis (voclosporin) has shown promise. Approved by the FDA, Lupkynis helps reduce inflammation in the kidneys and prevents long-term damage, improving kidney function over time. This medication is part of a growing number of targeted therapies designed to improve outcomes for lupus patients.
The treatment plan depends on the individual and the severity of their lupus, but commonly used medications include:
- Immunosuppressants: Drugs like methotrexate or azathioprine help reduce the immune system's activity to prevent lupus flare-ups.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroids: Strong anti-inflammatory medications that help control inflammation in more severe cases.
- Antimalarial drugs: Medications like hydroxychloroquine are commonly used to help control symptoms such as joint pain and skin rashes.
Lupus presents with a wide variety of symptoms, some common and others more obscure. Recognizing these signs early is essential to getting the right treatment and improving the quality of life for those affected by this complex disease. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and proper management.