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Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells. It primarily affects women, typically in their childbearing years, though it can affect anyone, including men and children. Lupus is characterized by periods of flare-ups and remission, where symptoms may worsen and then improve.
Identifying Early Signs
The early signs of lupus can be subtle, and they may vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience a sudden onset of symptoms, while others may have a gradual progression of the disease. We are going to go through the most common early signs of lupus and how they typically present.
Fatigue
Persistent and extreme fatigue is often one of the earliest and most common symptoms of lupus. It can be debilitating and can significantly affect a person's ability to carry out daily activities. Up to 80% of people with lupus say that fatigue is a primary condition. This is not the same as just feeling tired. When a healthy person gets tired, they can go to sleep and wake up the next day feeling better. If you have fatigue related to lupus, it may feel like you can never get enough sleep.
Joint Pain and Stiffness
During the course of the disease, approximately 95% of lupus patients will have joint symptoms. This pain can be migratory, meaning it affects different joints at different times. Most commonly, lupus affects joints that are farther from the middle of your body, like your fingers, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, and toes. This joint pain can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by swelling and tenderness.
Skin Rashes
A malar rash, also known as a butterfly-shaped rash, is a classic early sign of lupus. It typically appears on the cheeks and bridge of the nose, resembling the shape of a butterfly. Other skin rashes, hives, or lesions may also appear, often in response to sun exposure (photosensitivity). UV exposure can bring on or worsen skin problems for as many as 70% of people with lupus.
Fever
Low-grade fevers are sometimes early signs of lupus. These fevers may come and go and are often unexplained. A temperature of 101°F is generally accepted as a fever, but many people with lupus may also experience reoccurring, low-grade temperatures that do not reach 101°. These low-grade temperatures may signal an oncoming illness of an approaching flare-up of lupus. They can also signal inflammation or infection, so it is important to be aware of the patterns of your body and notify a physician of anything unusual.
Sensitivity to Sunlight
Many individuals with lupus experience heightened sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Exposure to the sun can trigger or exacerbate skin rashes and other symptoms. It's important for people with lupus to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. As many as 75% of people with lupus are photosensitive, although the reason for why is unclear.
Hair Loss
Many people with lupus develop problems with their skin, like rashes or sores on the scalp. These can in turn cause hair loss or hair thinning, also known as known as alopecia. Hair loss may be diffuse and occur in patches. This is one of the early signs of lupus that can be difficult to identify, so it is good to remember that the hair loss will usually be accompanied by a number of other factors.
Raynaud's Phenomenon
Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition in which the fingers and toes turn white or blue in response to cold temperatures or stress. In lupus, this can be an early sign and is due to the narrowing of blood vessels in extremities. The color change can also be accompanied by pain, numbness, or tingling. The lips, nose and chin may also be affected. When warmth allows blood flow to return to the site, the skin may return to a reddish color.
Chest Pain
Chest pain when breathing deeply (pleurisy) or inflammation of the lining around the heart (pericarditis) can occur as early signs of lupus. These conditions can be painful and may be associated with difficulty breathing. If you have lupus, you are at greater risk of having heart disease. Lupus damages the inside of blood vessels, which leads to plaques and coronary heart disease earlier than in people without lupus.
Oral and Nasal Ulcers
Mouth and nose ulcers may develop in about 25% of people with lupus. These ulcers can be painful and can interfere with eating and speaking. They are not dangerous, but can be uncomfortable if not treated.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Some individuals with lupus may experience swollen lymph nodes, often in the neck and under the arms. Swollen lymph nodes can be an early sign of the immune system's response to inflammation. Some studies show that swollen lymph nodes tend to occur along with a fever, fatigue, weight loss, as well as skins rashes and lesions.
Tracking Lupus Symptoms
It's important to note that the early signs and development of lupus can be mild and may come and go. These symptoms are often nonspecific and can mimic other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. If you suspect you may have lupus or are experiencing these symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical evaluation and consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and management are key to improving the quality of life for individuals living with lupus.
For additional information take a look at the resources PatientsLikeMe has on lupus. Come and create a free account today to connect with other members also living with the condition, share your experiences, and take charge of your care!