Understanding Lupus: A Complex Autoimmune Disease

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body. An autoimmune disease occurs when the body's immune system, which is designed to protect against foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. In lupus, this leads to widespread inflammation and tissue damage.

What is Lupus?

There are several types of lupus, but the most common form is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). SLE can affect a wide range of organs, including the joints, skin, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs. The symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and can be unpredictable, often coming and going in what are known as "flares."

Common symptoms of lupus include:

• Fatigue and fever

• Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling

• A butterfly-shaped rash on the face that covers the cheeks and bridge of the nose

• Skin lesions that worsen with sun exposure

• Fingers and toes that turn white or blue when exposed to cold or stress (Raynaud's Disease)

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Dry eyes & mouth (Sjogren's Disease)

• Mouth and nose sores

• Photosensitivity

• Headaches, confusion, and memory loss

Because these symptoms are common to many other conditions, diagnosing lupus can be challenging.

How is Lupus Diagnosed?

Diagnosing lupus is a process of elimination and is based on a combination of a person's symptoms, a physical examination, and blood and urine tests. No single test can definitively diagnose lupus.

1. Symptom Review: Doctors will first review a patient's medical history and symptoms. The American College of Rheumatology has a list of criteria to help diagnose SLE. A person must have at least four of these 11 criteria, either at the same time or over time, to be diagnosed with lupus.

2. Physical Examination: A doctor will look for physical signs of the disease, such as a rash, swelling in the joints, or other signs of organ inflammation.

3. Blood and Urine Tests:

   • Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test: This is the most common test used to screen for lupus. Most people with lupus have a positive ANA test. However, a positive ANA test alone does not confirm a lupus diagnosis, as other conditions and even some healthy individuals can have a positive ANA.

   • CBC (Complete Blood Count): This can show if a person has a low number of red blood cells (anemia), white blood cells, or platelets, which can be indicators of lupus.

   • Kidney and Liver Assessments: Tests like a urine analysis and blood tests can check for kidney and liver problems, which are common in lupus.

   • Complement Test: This test measures the levels of proteins in the blood that are part of the immune system. Low levels can indicate that an autoimmune process is active.

   • ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) and CRP (C-Reactive Protein): These tests measure inflammation in the body.

How is Lupus Treated?

There is no cure for lupus, but treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent flares. The treatment plan is highly individualized and depends on the severity and location of the disease.

• Medications:

  • Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help with mild joint pain and fever.

  • Antimalarial Drugs: Medications like hydroxychloroquine are often used to treat fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes.

  • Corticosteroids: Drugs like prednisone are powerful anti-inflammatory medications used to quickly reduce inflammation during a flare. They are typically used for a short time due to potential long-term side effects.

  • Immunosuppressants: These drugs suppress the immune system and are used in more severe cases of lupus, especially when major organs are affected.

  • Biologics: Newer medications, such as belimumab (Benlysta), and anifrolumab-fnia (Saphnelo) target specific cells or proteins in the immune system to reduce lupus activity.

    
    

Lifestyle Changes:

• Sun Protection: People with lupus should avoid sun exposure and wear protective clothing and sunscreen, as UV rays can trigger flares.

• Healthy Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.

• Stress Management: Stress can also trigger flares, so finding ways to manage it, such as through mindfulness or meditation, is important.

• Regular Check-ups: Regular visits with a rheumatologist and other specialists are crucial for monitoring the disease and adjusting treatment as needed.

• Treatment Compliance: 50% of patients do not take their medication as prescribed. Managing your medications and treatment protocols is an essential lifestyle change that is necessary for better health outcomes.

• Vitamin D: Lower levels of vitamin D in patients have been linked to worse lupus symptoms and more flares.

• Connecting with Community: Finding others that have been through a similar journey helps to feel less alone. More Than Lupus offers monthly support groups to connect you with others!

Living with lupus can be challenging, but with an early and accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan, many people with lupus can lead full and active lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of lupus, it's essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and care.

Compiled By:

Kelli (Casas) Roseta

**All resources provided by this blog are for informational purposes only, not to replace the advice of a medical professional. Kelli encourages you to always contact your medical provider with any specific questions or concerns regarding your illness. All intellectual property and content on this site and in this blog are owned by morethanlupus.com. This includes materials protected by copyright, trademark, or patent laws. Copyright, More Than Lupus 2025.

Sources:

• Lupus Foundation of America:

  • URL: https://www.lupus.org/

• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS):

  • URL: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/lupus

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

  • URL: https://www.cdc.gov/lupus/about/index.html

• Mayo Clinic:

  • URL: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lupus/symptoms-causes/syc-20365789

• American College of Rheumatology (ACR):

  • URL: https://www.rheumatology.org/patients/lupus

• MedlinePlus:

  • URL: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000435.htm