Lupus is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks healthy cells and organs. The condition can affect different parts of the body, like joints, lungs, heart, kidneys, blood, and the brain. Here, the immune system response can trigger pain, inflammation, and swelling, among other symptoms. However, with early detection and appropriate treatment, one can manage the condition. So, below, one can learn more about the common signs of lupus:

Skin rash
Those with autoimmune conditions may develop skin rashes. For those with lupus, butterfly rash or malar rash are common symptoms. It can develop on the arms, face (usually on the cheeks and across the nose), ears, and chest. These rashes can take on the shape of a butterfly and can be itchy. The condition can make the skin extremely sensitive to sunlight, so rashes can worsen with prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat; however, they are not usually painful. As one is dealing with the signs of an autoimmune condition, the rashes may not respond to topical treatments. The symptom is generally localized before it spreads to other body parts over time.

Oral and nasal lesions
Lupus usually causes painful sores or lesions inside the mouth or nose. This symptom can make daily activities like speaking, swallowing, and eating painful. Upon contact, the lesions might be tender and painful. Some people with lupus are also prone to developing skin lesions after prolonged sun exposure.

Joint inflammation
Pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints are some of the most common symptoms of lupus. This symptom usually develops in the joints of the hands, legs, ankles, feet, knees, and hips. The pain can come and go, but one usually experiences stiffness and swelling in the joints in the morning. As such joint problems can be signs of other health conditions, it is crucial to consult a doctor when one experiences persistent discomfort.

Thyroid problems
Thyroid disease is a common complication of lupus. When the thyroid gland does not function as it should, one may experience changes in metabolism and body mass. These changes can be gradual at times, making it difficult to notice them. These changes can even result in swelling of the lower extremities of the body, along with an increase in body mass. Further, thyroid problems may lead to dry hair and skin.

Gastrointestinal issues
Acid reflux and heartburn are common health issues, so one may not seek treatment for the issue. However, gastrointestinal issues are common lupus symptoms. Heartburn could be an occasional issue when dealing with lupus and can be managed by making a few changes to daily meals and lifestyle. Prescription treatment can also help relieve acid reflux. Those with stomach issues may experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and persistent abdominal pain. Further, one may be at risk of pancreatitis and ulcerative colitis when affected by lupus.

Dry mouth and eyes
A sudden change in the moisture levels of the mouth and the eyes could be a warning sign of a health condition. Here, one may start feeling persistently parched and develop puffy and dry eyes. These symptoms can be attributed to Sjogren’s disease, which is a common complication of lupus. Here, the salivary and tear glands tend to malfunction, and lymphocytes can begin to accumulate in the glands. In women with lupus, Sjogren’s can also cause dry skin and vaginal dryness.

Confusion
Although changes in brain function are a rare outcome of lupus, the condition can affect brain cells. So, one may experience signs like headaches, confusion, disorientation, dizziness, and even memory problems. More severe brain-related signs and symptoms of lupus are seizures and psychosis, which affect approximately 25% of people who have been diagnosed with the condition. Seizures can cause involuntary movements along with the unconscious. Whereas psychosis is characterized by disturbed behavior and thinking that is often accompanied by hallucinations.

Anemia
Anemia is another common sign of lupus. Here, the body does not have an adequate number of healthy red blood cells. This, in turn, affects the ability of blood to carry oxygen to different parts of the body. So, people with anemia can experience weakness, fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat. With lupus, the immune system accidentally attacks healthy red blood cells resulting in anemia.

While lupus can affect people in different ways, if one experiences any of the above-mentioned lupus symptoms, they should consult a doctor for an early diagnosis and treatment plan. With the right changes, treatment, and guidance, one can manage the condition and its symptoms.