Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. According to recent statistics, roughly 1.5 million Americans have lupus. Further research shows that 90% of total lupus cases are diagnosed in women between 18 and 44 years old. Lupus occurs in periods of flare-ups of symptoms followed by remissions, with no symptoms. Lupus causes a wide range of symptoms, including:

1. Joint pain
Lupus pain and swelling can affect any joint in the body, but primarily in the joints of the hands, wrists, and knees. These symptoms are often worse in the morning and can be accompanied by stiffness. In some cases, the joints may become deformed due to chronic inflammation. Also, if your kidneys are affected, your body won’t be filtering, causing fluids to collect, thus swelling.

2. Butterfly-Shaped rash across the face
This butterfly shaped rash typically appears on the cheeks and nose and can be red or purple. Exposure to sunlight is a main trigger. However, only some lupus patients experience these rashes.

3. Fingers and toes that turn blue or white
Lupus causes the blood vessels in the fingers and toes to constrict, reducing blood flow and causing the affected areas to turn white or blue. This is often caused by cold temperatures or emotional stress. Other common symptoms include numbness, tingling, and pain in the affected area.

4. Shortness of breath
Chest pain and shortness of breath are also common in lupus patients and may be caused by inflammation of the lining of the chest cavity or the lungs, which can also prompt coughing and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, lupus can cause heart muscle inflammation, leading to chest pain and shortness of breath.

5. Hair loss
Lupus autoimmune attacks cause chronic inflammation and may cause damage to the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. In some cases, the hair loss may be temporary and regrow once the underlying cause of the inflammation is treated. In other cases, the hair loss may be permanent. Beards and other body hair can also thin on male lupus patients.

6. Light sensitivity
Lupus.org indicates that 40% to 70% of people with lupus will experience light sensitivity when exposed to UV rays from sunlight or artificial light. Light sensitivity, also known as photosensitivity, causes discomfort or pain with exposure and can prompt worse lupus symptoms, particularly the butterfly rash (noted above) or other skin irritations.

Lupus is a chronic condition that requires ongoing medical management with no known cure. Treatment may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and immune-suppressing drugs. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as avoiding exposure to sunlight and using sunscreen can help manage symptoms. Joining a support group can also help manage depression associated with living with a chronic disease like lupus. Working closely with a healthcare team to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals is essential.