Lupus
Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that occurs when your body's immune system attacks your own tissues and organs.
Allergies & immune systemOverview
Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that occurs when your body's immune system attacks your own tissues and organs. Inflammation caused by lupus can affect many different body systems including the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs.
There are many kinds of lupus. The most common type, systemic lupus erythematosus, affects many parts of the body. Discoid lupus causes a rash that does not go away. Subacute cutaneous lupus causes sores after being out in the sun. Another type can be caused by medication. Neonatal lupus, which is rare, affects newborns.
Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because its signs and symptoms often mimic those of other conditions. The most distinctive sign of lupus is a facial rash that resembles the wings of a butterfly unfolding across both cheeks.
Anyone can get lupus, but women are more likely to develop the disease than men. Lupus is also more common in African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American women than in other races. Lupus affects people of all ages, but it is most often diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40 years old.
The exact cause of lupus is not known. Some people are likely born with a tendency toward developing lupus, which may be triggered by infections, certain drugs, or even sunlight. There is no cure for lupus, but treatments can help control symptoms.
Symptoms
- joint and muscle pain or swelling
- fatigue
- low-grade fever
- skin rash, often on the face, which is called the “butterfly rash”
- fingers and toes that turn white or blue when exposed to cold or during stressful periods (Raynaud's phenomenon)
- shortness of breath
- dry eyes
- headaches, confusion, or memory loss
- chest pain
- unusual hair loss
- anemia
- sensitivity to sunlight
- kidneys. Lupus can cause serious kidney damage, and kidney failure is one of the leading causes of death among people with lupus. Signs and symptoms of kidney problems may include generalized itching, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, and leg swelling (edema).
- brain and central nervous system. If your brain is affected by lupus, you may experience headaches, dizziness, behavior changes, hallucinations, stroke, or seizures. Many people with lupus experience memory problems and may have difficulty expressing their thoughts.
- blood and blood vessels. Lupus may lead to blood problems, including anemia and an increased risk of bleeding or blood clotting. It can also cause inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis).
- lungs. Having lupus increases your chances of developing an inflammation of the chest cavity lining (pleurisy), which can make breathing painful. You may also be more susceptible to pneumonia.
- heart. Lupus can cause inflammation of the heart muscle, arteries, or heart membrane (pericarditis). The risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks is also high if you have lupus.
Causes & risk factors
Lupus occurs when your immune system attacks healthy tissue in your body. Lupus likely results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with an inherited predisposition for lupus may develop the disease when something in the environment triggers lupus. Some potential triggers include sunlight, infections, and certain medications including ant-seizure medications, blood pressure medications, and antibiotics. The cause for lupus in most cases, however, is unknown.
When to get help
See your doctor for ongoing fatigue, joint pain, a facial 'butterfly' rash, or fevers without a clear cause. Seek urgent care for chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, or confusion.
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All information on this site is provided “as-is” for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. You should consult with a medical professional if you have any questions about your health.