Understanding Lupus Signs Can Speed Diagnosis and Treatment

If you have suffered from unexplained muscle aches, fatigue, or joint stiffness, you may be dealing with an autoimmune disease called Lupus. In Lupus, signs of an initial flare-up can often be mistaken for other, less serious illnesses. Being aware of some common symptoms of Lupus will help direct the conversation at your next doctor's visit and can help to confirm or deny a diagnosis of Lupus.

In Lupus sufferers, the autoimmune system has become hyperactive, and actually attacks the body's own tissues and organs. This causes inflammation and damage over time, which can be mild to extremely severe. However, once diagnosed, this illness is manageable.

A physician will look for specific Lupus signs before confirming the presence of the disease and will often perform blood work to be positive.

According to www.lupus.org, over 90% of new Lupus cases are found in women of childbearing age. Knowing this, it is easy to see how the symptoms of this condition can be overlooked or confused with other illnesses. When making a diagnosis, a physician will look to see if a patient is experiencing at least three to five of the following symptoms:

Sudden Hair Loss-Often one of the first major Lupus signs, unexplained hair loss should be relayed to your physician. Hair loss can be sudden and dramatic, or be the result of increased shedding over a short period of time. Hair loss is usually associated with the onset of Lupus and usually diminishes over time and with treatment.

Stiff or Achy Joints-Many Lupus cases involve Rheumatoid Arthritis, which is an inflammation and stiffness in the joints. If you have suffered from swollen or achy joints for at least a few months, this may be another Lupus sign.

Chronic Fatigue- If you can't understand why you have been so exhausted lately, it may be that you are experiencing the fatigue often associated with Lupus. Document whether you feel listless and tired, even when getting a full night's rest.

Sores or Ulcers- Often found in the nose and mouth, sores that do not heal within a few days can be a sign of an autoimmune condition. Sores or lesions may also be found on other parts of the body and you may take longer than usual to heal from burns or scrapes.

Skin Rashes-Often labeled as the "Butterfly Rash", Lupus suffers may present a red rash over the bridge of the nose and both cheeks. This can be red in color and the skin may feel puffy or inflamed.

Chest Pain-With Lupus, there may be lung involvement. Your doctor will want to know about any shortness of breath or pain felt upon inhalation or exertion.

Numbness- Any tingling or numbness, especially in the hands and feet should be reported. Also, the extremities may turn red or blue, especially in cold weather.

Photosensitivity- If being out in the sun seems to cause skin irritation or discomfort, this may be another Lupus sign. Lupus sufferers often find that they must shield themselves from the sun to prevent negative skin reactions.

Fever-Running an unexplained temperature for more than a few days may also be a sign that your immune system is overactive. Report any abnormal temperature readings.

As any of these symptoms on their own can indicate other illnesses, physicians look for three to five of these complaints when looking to make a positive diagnosis. In addition, blood work to determine if you are producing antibodies, as well as a urine analysis to determine kidney function are often used as a final determining factor.

If you feel that you may have Lupus, keep track of your symptoms for a week or two and present your physician with as much information as possible to aid in diagnosis and treatment.

For a full list of symptoms, recent research studies, as well as support, the Lupus Foundation of America is an invaluable resource (http://www.lupus.org/newsite/index.html). By taking charge of your health, you increase your chances of a correct diagnosis, prompt treatment, and an improved quality of life.

Source:

Lupus Foundation of America- http://www.lupus.org/newsite/index.html