Lupus, or lupus nephritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when lupus autoantibodies affect structures in your kidneys that filter out waste. This causes the body to mistakenly attack healthy tissue, which leads to chronic inflammation and tissue damage, and may lead to blood or protein in the urine, high blood pressure, impaired kidney function or even kidney failure. Lupus can affect multiple body parts—including the organs, skin, heart, and brain. Lupus can affect people of all ages and genders, but it’s most prevalent in women between the ages of 15 and 44 years old. Warning signs and symptoms of lupus include the following:

1. Joint pain and swelling

Depending on the individual, joint pain and swelling associated with lupus can be mild or severe. The knees, wrists, hands, and feet are the joints in which pain and swelling are most prevalent. Lupus pain is most often characterized as a dull ache. However, many patients claim the pain is sharp and stabbing. Lupus swelling can involve one joint or multiple joints at the same time. In addition, associated symptoms may include redness, warmth, and joint stiffness. These symptoms are almost identical to those seen in patients with prurigo nodularis lupus.

2. A butterfly-shaped rash on the face

This rash, also known as a malar or butterfly rash, is one of the most recognizable signs of lupus. The rash usually appears on the bridge of the nose and spans the cheeks with a red or purple flush of color. This lupus rash may be itchy or painful and can last several weeks, although not everyone with lupus will develop this rash.

3. Ulcers in the mouth or nose

One symptom of lupus that is often overlooked is the development of ulcers in the mouth and nose. These ulcers can be painful and uncomfortable, making it difficult to eat and speak. They are usually small and white and may appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, and gums. They may also be red or yellow. Eating may become difficult, as mouth ulcers can make it hard to swallow. Nose ulcers are often red and raised and may accompany a burning sensation. They can be very uncomfortable, making it difficult to breathe and experience smell. Lupus ulcers in the mouth and nose are caused by the immune system attacking the tissues in these areas. The ulcers can be a sign of an active lupus flare and should be evaluated by a doctor.

4. Chest pain and shortness of breath

Chest pain is a common symptom of lupus and can be caused by inflammation or abnormal blood clotting. Most commonly experienced in the chest, shoulders, arms, and back, breathlessness and chest pain can range from dull to sharp, and it may accompany other symptoms—such as chest tightness and fatigue. Shortness of breath in lupus patients is most often the result of inflammation of the lungs.

5. Hair thinning and hair loss

Hair loss in lupus patients occurs when the hair shaft thins, but the number of hair strands remains the same. This can be caused by inflammation of the scalp, the use of certain medications, or the presence of an underlying autoimmune disorder. The best way to treat hair loss and hair thinning due to lupus is to manage the underlying condition. It typically involves taking medications to control the autoimmune response and making lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and eating a healthy diet to reduce flareup frequency.

6. Light sensitivity

Several factors can cause light sensitivity in lupus patients, but one of the most common is inflammation of the eyes, which are caused by an immune cell attack. This will make the eyes more sensitive to light, resulting in irritation and pain with sunlight exposure. In addition to inflammation, light sensitivity can be caused by other lupus-related conditions, such as photo-sensitivity, a reaction to light that causes skin rashes and adverse skin reactions. Patients with lupus may find that they need to wear sunglasses when outdoors and may need to avoid bright lights indoors to reduce their light sensitivity.

Fortunately, there is hope with a wide range of lupus medications available to help manage the symptoms and reduce flare ups. Lupus remedies range from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids to biological agents and immunosuppressants. Each drug has its side effects, so discussing the risks and benefits of each medication with your doctor is essential. One can manage lupus effectively with the right combination of drugs, lifestyle modifications, and other treatments.