Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus, is an autoimmune disorder that can cause issues or pain in different body organs and systems. It might also result in complications and inflammation ranging from minor to life-threatening. In this autoimmune disorder, the body’s immune system affects the healthy cells. Studies by the Lupus Foundation of America concluded that over 1.5 million people in the country have lupus. Scroll to learn the systemic lupus erythematosus diagnosis and symptoms.

Fatigue
Around ninety percent of people with lupus experience fatigue. Of course, an afternoon nap might be beneficial, but excessive sleeping during the day might cause insomnia at night. Given your condition, it might be challenging, but if you try sticking to a routine and remaining active, you can keep your energy levels high. If the fatigue prolongs, you must consult a medical expert for a problem treatment plan.

Raynaud’s syndrome
It is a prevalent health condition wherein the small blood vessels in the toes and fingers spasm. It also hinders circulation. Some people with Raynaud’s syndrome experience extreme sensitivity to cold weather. Hence, when the temperature drops, they will experience a loss of color and poor circulation than people sans this condition. This condition affects thirty-three percent of people with positive systemic lupus erythematosus diagnosis, resulting in color loss in toes and fingers. Initially, the fingers turn blue or white and eventually red with rewarming.

Kidney problems
People with lupus have issues with their kidneys. Kidneys are vital body organs and perform several functions. They eliminate the toxins from the blood via the urine. Unless the damage to the kidney is severe, you may not experience many symptoms. However, it usually causes high blood pressure. If spotted early, treating kidney problems arising from lupus is easier. Prescription treatments can help avoid permanent kidney damage. Further, after systemic lupus erythematosus diagnosis, monitoring kidney function is usually a part of routine check-ups, as untreated nephritis might cause end-stage renal disease.
Inflammation is a prevalent concern people with lupus experience. It is called nephritis. Studies suggest that nephritis commences within five years of developing lupus and will show symptoms like:

• Swelling in the feet and legs
• Pain in the side
• Having to urinate more frequently at night
• Darker urine
• Blood in the urine
• High blood pressure

Hair loss
It is the first sign of lupus that commences with inflammation in the scalp and skin. However, with the correct lupus treatment, you will experience new hair growth, but if you develop lesions on the scalp, you might be at risk of permanent hair loss.

Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
Stiffness, swelling, and pain in the morning after waking up are the classic lupus symptoms. You will predominantly experience it in the fingers, knuckles, and wrists. Often people confuse this condition with rheumatoid arthritis. However, there is a difference in their occurrence. While lupus primarily affects joints on one side, rheumatoid arthritis will affect both joints equally. Swelling in joints might also come and go with lupus, but it does not alter the joint’s appearance or get progressively worse, as is the case with RA. Further, lupus is more prevalent in younger patients than RA.

Pulmonary issues
Inflammation in the pulmonary system is another prevalent lupus symptom. It causes lung inflammation, and the swelling extends to the lung blood vessels and affects the diaphragm. The condition can develop pain in the chest when you try breathing. It is called pleuritic chest pain. As time progresses, lupus breathing issues can cause the lungs to shrink. Shortness of breath and persistent chest pain are two dominant characteristics of this condition. Some even refer to it as shrinking lung syndrome or vanishing.

Headaches
People with lupus are two times more susceptible to experiencing migraine-like headaches as opposed to those without the disease. Additionally, headaches are more prevalent in people with Raynaud’s syndrome. Headaches might often result from vasculitis or blood vessel inflammation in the brain. Further, the formation of blood clots within the blood vessels might also result in lupus in some people.

Gastrointestinal problems
At times, people with lupus might also experience acid reflux, heartburn, or any other gastrointestinal issues. You can treat the mild symptoms with antacids, but if the episodes are frequent, you will have to take added measures, like not lying down post a meal, avoiding beverages with caffeine, and shortening the portion size. If the symptoms persist, visit a doctor to rule out other conditions.

Mouth or nose sores
Twenty-five percent of people with this health condition experience nose or mouth sores. Whenever you notice any sores like herpes lesions or cold sores, you must instantly speak to your doctor. Herpes outbreaks are prevalent in people who take immunosuppressive therapies for lupus.

Unexplained fever
A temperature over 100 degrees might also indicate lupus. Sometimes the prescription remedies you take for lupus might aggravate your susceptibility to infection and can be responsible for bringing a fever.

Dry eyes or mouth
When you have lupus, you might also get a dry mouth, and your eyes might also feel dry and gritty. It is because sometimes people with lupus develop Sjogren’s syndrome. It is an autoimmune disease that causes the lymphocytes to crowd the saliva and tear glands, making them malfunction. Some people might also experience overall skin dryness or vaginal dryness.

Systemic lupus erythematosus diagnosis
Sadly, no single test can help with the lupus diagnosis. The medical expert will inspect for systematic inflammation signs, an indicator that the body’s immune system is acting up.

For diagnosis, the doctors might:
Take your comprehensive medical history, including the symptoms you are experiencing and how they changed over time.

1. Inquire about your family’s medical history.
2. Conduct a nuclear antibody test for signs of an autoimmune condition.
3. Perform a blood test to eliminate the possibility of other conditions and assess the reasons for systematic inflammation.
4. Recommend waiting to see how the symptoms change over time.