Symptoms of Lupus
The symptoms of lupus vary from person to person, but the most common ones include:
- Joint pain and swelling.
- Arthritis.
- Muscle pain.
- Unexplained fever.
- A red rash that usually appears on the face.
- Chest pain when taking a deep breath.
- Hair loss.
- Pale or purple fingers.
- Sensitivity to sunlight.
- Swelling in the feet or around the eyes.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
- Extreme fatigue.
- Mouth ulcers.
- Loss of appetite and weight loss.
- Headaches.
It is important to note that these symptoms tend to fluctuate, sometimes easing and sometimes worsening, and may appear at any time.
Treatment for Lupus: Is It Available?
While there is no clear cure for lupus, making certain lifestyle changes can help manage the disease effectively.
Lupus patients often need care from multiple specialists, with each doctor managing the symptoms that fall under their expertise. For example, if the disease affects the cardiovascular system, the patient will need to see a cardiologist.
Doctors work to develop a treatment plan that fits the patient’s symptoms and condition, and this plan may need adjustments over time, depending on how the disease presents itself.
The goal of the treatment plan is to:
- Reduce the severity of symptoms and the possibility of sudden flare-ups.
- Minimize damage to various organs and body parts.
The treatment plan may include medications that:
- Relieve pain and swelling.
- Reduce the frequency of sudden symptom flare-ups.
- Regulate the immune system’s activity.
- Prevent further damage to joints and organs.
- Maintain hormone levels within their natural range.
- Reduce the risk of infection.
In addition to lupus-specific medications, patients may also need treatment for complications or symptoms that arise due to the disease, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and various inflammations.