Signs and symptoms

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) can affect any part of the body causing many symptoms including weight loss and fatigue. Other manifestations include:

·        Rashes on the face, across the cheek or bridge of nose

·        Sores in mouth or nose

·        Unusual hair loss, primarily on the scalp

·        Painful joints

·        Fingertips and/or toes become pale or purple from the cold or stress

·        Low white blood cell count

·        Unexplained swelling

·        Fever

·        Chest pain associated with breathing

·        Muscle pain

·        Protein urine

·        Constantly feeling tired  

·        Sensitivity to the sun

·        Feeling of depression and isolation

·        Difficulty concentrating, and/or memory fog

Because many of the symptoms come and go, it could take months or even years for a definitive diagnosis to be determined.Along with laboratory tests, doctors usually look for other evidence of the condition such as swelling of the joints, fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest, aching muscles, protein in the urine, rashes on the face and in some fluid around the heart and lungs.

Understanding the symptoms

With most, the first symptoms recognized with SLE resemble those with arthritis, with swelling and pain in the fingers and other joints which can appear suddenly. Other symptoms include abnormal abdominal and chest pains, fatigue, hair loss, poor circulation in fingers and toes, unexplained weight loss, and shortness of breath. Share all of your symptoms with your doctor and family so that you get the care and support you need. Write down your symptoms as they occur so you don’t forget when your doctor asks “how are you feeling”? If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have not been diagnosed or believe you may have Lupus get tested.