Lupus

Lupus symptoms vary widely, and they come and go. The times when symptoms get worse are called relapses, or flares. The times when symptoms are under control are called remissions.

Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue. Increased fatigue is a classic sign that a symptom flare is about to happen.
• Joint pain or swelling (arthritis).
• A fever.
• A skin rash. Many people have a butterfly rash over the cheeks and bridge of the nose. Skin sores or flaky red spots may appear on the arms, hands, face, neck, or back.
• Exposure to ultraviolet light (such as sunlight or tanning parlors) typically makes the skin rash worse and can trigger lupus flares.
• Mouth sores.
• Hair loss.
• Raynaud's syndrome. This causes fingers and toes to turn white and blue or red. The skin feels numb, tingly, and cold.

Over time, some people with lupus have problems with the heart, lungs, kidneys, skin, blood cells, or nervous system.

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You have symptoms of a heart attack. These may include:
  • Chest pain or pressure, or a strange feeling in the chest.
  • Sweating.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Pain, pressure, or a strange feeling in the back, neck, jaw, or upper belly or in one or both shoulders or arms.
  • Lightheadedness or sudden weakness.
  • A fast or irregular heartbeat.

After you call 911, the operator may tell you to chew 1 adult-strength or 2 to 4 low-dose aspirin. Wait for an ambulance. Do not try to drive yourself.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You are short of breath.
• You have blood in your urine or are urinating less often and in smaller amounts than usual.
• You have a fever.
• You feel depressed or notice any changes in your behavior or thinking.
• You are dizzy or have muscle weakness.
• You have swelling of the lower legs or feet.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your symptoms get worse or you develop any new symptoms. These may include aching or swollen joints, increased fatigue, loss of appetite, hair loss, skin rashes, or new sores in your mouth or nose.