Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, it most commonly presents in people between the ages of 15 and 44 years old. Some reports even suggest that lupus is more prominent in younger populations, particularly women of childbearing age, although the incidence of lupus in the pediatric population is increasing.
The symptoms of lupus can vary greatly and may present in different ways in different individuals. These may include skin rashes, joint pain and swelling, fatigue, fever, and/or other signs and symptoms.
Lupus is a complex condition, and symptoms may change overtime and with treatment.
A formal diagnosis of lupus can only be made by a doctor after a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Diagnosis of lupus may be difficult due to the complexity of the condition and the wide range of signs and symptoms.
As such, it is important to discuss any changes or concerns with your doctor promptly, should you believe you may have lupus.
What triggers onset of lupus?
The exact cause of lupus is still unknown, but it is known to be an autoimmune disease that is triggered by a variety of things. The main trigger is believed to be a combination of inherited genetic characteristics, the environment, and hormones.
A genetic predisposition puts some people at a higher risk of developing lupus than others. This means that a person may have a combination of genes passed down from their parents that increase the likelihood that they may develop lupus at some point in their life.
The environment is believed to play a role in the development of lupus, as certain environmental toxins and ultraviolet radiation from the sun can make a person more susceptible to developing the autoimmune disease.
Furthermore, hormones have also been linked to symptoms of lupus in some cases. An imbalance or overactivity of the hormones estrogen and testosterone can lead to flare-ups and further complications.
Stress, infections, and certain medications have also been linked to the development of lupus.
Overall, the exact cause of lupus is still unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and hormones that trigger its onset.
Can you suddenly develop lupus?
No, you can’t suddenly develop lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disorder which is caused when the body’s immune system becomes overactive and starts to attack healthy cells and tissues. It is thought to occur when a combination of environmental, genetic and hormonal factors come together to trigger the disease.
Symptoms of lupus can vary, but often include fatigue, joint pain, rash, muscle pain, and fever.
Lupus usually develops slowly over time, and it can take months or even years for symptoms to appear and a diagnosis to be made. Early diagnosis is important because, although lupus cannot be cured, treatment can help to manage the condition and reduce the risk of organ damage.
So, while you cannot suddenly develop lupus, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms, and seek medical advice if you think you may have lupus or another autoimmune disorder.
What does the beginning of a lupus flare feel like?
The beginning of a lupus flare is usually marked by a worsening of existing symptoms, or the emergence of new ones. Common symptoms include extreme fatigue, muscle and joint pain or stiffness, headaches, fever, hair loss, and a rash.
Other less common symptoms include ulcers in the nose or mouth, changes in self-image, depression, and confusion. Many individuals also experience a “butterfly” or “discoid” rash across their face, which may also develop on other areas of the body.
In some cases, symptoms can be very severe and can include seizures, kidney failure, and inflammation of the lining of the heart or lungs. It is important to seek medical advice if any of these symptoms are experienced.
What were your first signs of lupus?
My first signs of lupus were subtle and not immediately concerning. I initially noticed fatigue, which was particularly pronounced in the mornings. I also had dry eyes and skin, which eventually developed into rashes in sun-exposed areas of my body.
I experienced hair loss, joint pain and swelling, as well as intermittent fevers that moved around my body. I was also consistently thirsty and had occasional headaches. Over time, my symptoms only intensified and I sought medical care.
After several tests, I was eventually diagnosed with lupus.
Does lupus show up in blood work?
Yes, lupus can show up in blood work, although the results may not always be clear. It is common for lupus to be indicated by an abnormal sedimentation rate, an elevated white blood cell count, and a low platelet count.
Tests may also be done to measure levels of antibodies linked to lupus, like anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) and anti-double stranded DNA (dsDNA). A doctor may also perform urine or tissue tests to look for a specific type of lupus called lupus nephritis, which involves inflammation of the kidneys.
Even though the blood tests can corroborate suspected lupus, it can sometimes still be hard to diagnose. This is because the general presence of some antibodies and other cellular changes is common among many people, when only in certain cases do they lead to lupus.
Therefore, a physician may combine blood tests with a physical exam, medical history examination, and detailed review of a patient’s symptoms in order to definitively make the diagnosis.
What should you not do if you have lupus?
If you have lupus, it is important to take preventative measures to stay healthy and keep symptoms under control. There are a few things you should avoid in order to benefit your overall health.
Firstly, it is important to limit your exposure to sunshine. Since lupus can cause sensitivity to UV rays, staying out in the sun for extended periods of time can be very damaging, increasing your risk of skin inflammation, rash, and other complications.
Secondly, drinking alcohol should be avoided as it can worsen lupus symptoms. Alcohol can increase inflammation throughout the body and can cause flares, so it is important to abstain from, or at least reduce your alcohol intake.
Thirdly, it is best to avoid certain medications that can interact with lupus, particularly antibiotics and certain blood pressure medications. It is important to speak with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure that any medications you are taking are safe and won’t cause any dangerous drug interactions.
Finally, about 8 hours of sleep a night is recommended for anyone with lupus as it can help reduce inflammation and help manage symptoms such as fatigue.
By avoiding overexposure to the sun and alcohol, as well as being aware of potential drug interactions, and getting enough rest, you can help reduce flair-ups, keep symptoms at bay, and maintain a better quality of life.
When should you suspect lupus?
Suspecting lupus should be based on both clinical and laboratory evidence. Lupus is a complex autoimmune disorder that presents in many different ways and can be difficult to diagnose. The American College of Rheumatology has produced a list of criteria for diagnosing lupus, which is known as the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) criteria.
If you or your doctor suspects lupus, you should see a physician trained in diagnosing and managing rheumatic diseases, such as a rheumatologist.
Common clinical features that may raise suspicion of lupus include a butterfly-shaped rash, fatigue, joint and muscle pain, arthritis, fever, malaise, oral and/or facial ulcers, and seborrheic dermatitis.
You should particularly be cautious if two or more of these symptoms are present.
Other potential warning signs that you may have lupus are anemia, a low white blood cell count, a low red blood cell count, low levels of platelets, high levels of creatinine, abnormal protein levels in the blood, and abnormal blood uric acid levels.
Finally, laboratory testing may reveal abnormal levels of antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) in the blood, which can indicate that the body is attacking itself, as seen in autoimmune diseases like lupus. If any combination of the above symptoms are present, it is important to consult a doctor for further evaluation.
What jobs to avoid with lupus?
Unfortunately, lupus is an autoimmune disorder that can cause a wide range of symptoms, and can make it difficult for many people to work in certain occupations. It is therefore important to be aware of which jobs to avoid with lupus as certain ones may aggravate your symptoms or lead to health complications.
Although it is ultimately up to you to decide which job is right for you, below are a few jobs that you should consider avoiding if you have lupus:
1. Occupations that involve long periods of physical or emotional stress: These types of jobs can be too physically or mentally taxing on individuals with lupus. Examples may include, long haul truck drivers, public speakers, or travel agents who are on their feet or concentrated on the job all day.
2. Jobs in extreme weather conditions: Occupations that expose people to extreme weather conditions can intensify the symptoms of lupus. Such jobs may include, being a construction worker in a hot climate, or outdoor agricultural workers in cold climates.
3. Occupations involving heavy lifting: Lupus can interfere with physical abilities and cause joint and muscle pain. Therefore, it is better to avoid jobs that involve heavy lifting, such as garbage collectors or warehouse workers.
4. Work that involves coming in contact with hazardous chemicals: Working with hazardous chemicals can prove to be detrimental to the health of people with lupus, as the chemicals can trigger lupus and make the symptoms worse.
Examples may include, pesticides, herbicides, or industrial chemicals.
5. Jobs that require overnight or extended hours: Working long hours or overnight can cause an increase in lupus symptoms. This is because less sleep, odd hours, and hectic schedules can impair the body’s restorative powers and cause an increase in inflammation.
No matter which type of job you decide to take on, it is essential to listen to your body and take frequent breaks to minimize the chances of experiencing lupus symptoms. In addition, make sure to consult with your doctor regarding any changes in medications or lifestyle modifications you can implement to reduce flare-ups.
What are unusual symptoms of lupus?
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disorder which can cause a wide range of symptoms. These symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go. While some symptoms of lupus are common, others are more unusual.
These unusual symptoms can include telangiectases, also known as “spider” veins, usually on the face. This is caused by a dilatation of the smallest cutaneous capillaries and may appear as tiny red lines and dots.
Other unusual symptoms include Reynaud’s phenomenon, or numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes and intense coldness of the skin in response to temperature changes or stress. Cutaneous ulcers, or sores on the skin, can also be a symptom of lupus.
Such ulcers can sometimes form when inflammatory changes promote the non-healing of the skin cells. Muscle and joint pain and swelling can sometimes result as well. Photosensitivity is another often-reported symptom, in which the skin becomes sensitive to the sun and may produce rashes in response to sun exposure.
In addition, lupus can also cause low blood platelet levels and anemia, as well as small benign lumps called cutaneous “lupus” lumps in the scalp.
What are the 11 indicators of lupus?
The 11 indicators, or criteria, of lupus include:
1. Malar rash – a butterfly-shaped rash across cheeks and nose
2. Discoid rash – reddish, raised patches on the skin
3. Photosensitivity – skin rash from exposure to sunlight
4. Oral or nasal ulcers
5. Arthritis – swelling, stiffness and pain in the joints
6. Serositis – inflammation of the lining around the lungs and/or heart
7. Kidney disorder – evidence of proteins or red blood cells in the urine
8. Neurologic disorder – seizures and cognitive impairment
9. Blood disorder – anemia and/or low white blood cell count
10. Immunologic disorder – testing positive for antinuclear antibodies
11. Positive antiphospholipid antibodies – clotting disorders leading to recurrent miscarriages or clots in the arteries or veins.
The presence of four or more of these indicators increases the likelihood that a person has lupus. Whenever a person suspects they may have lupus, they should seek medical attention to discuss diagnosis and treatment options.
Can you have lupus for years without knowing?
Yes, it is possible to have lupus for years without knowing due to the fact that lupus can manifest in different ways and the symptoms can vary from person to person. Additionally, some of the common symptoms associated with lupus, such as joint pain and fatigue, can present themselves in individuals who are not suffering from the condition.
If left untreated, the condition can worsen over time and cause severe health complications. Due to this, it is important for individuals who potentially have lupus to speak to their physician and get tested as soon as possible.
Can you develop lupus later in life?
Yes, it is possible to develop lupus later in life. Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body’s own immune system attacks its own cells and tissues, and there is currently no known cause for the condition.
Although it is more common in women between the ages of 15 and 44, lupus can also be seen in other age groups, including older adults. In some cases, this can occur even several decades after the person’s initial symptoms first began.
Many symptoms of lupus are similar to those of other chronic conditions, so it can often be difficult to distinguish lupus from other medical issues. People with lupus may experience joint pain, fever, and rashes; hair loss; fatigue; oral or nasal ulcers; swelling of certain areas of the body; changes in vision or hearing; cognitive issues; and other symptoms.
Because there is no single diagnostic test to determine if someone has lupus, a diagnosis is usually made through careful examination of the person’s medical and family history, as well as a physical exam and maybe other additional testing.
Though lupus is more common in younger adults and is typically more severe in this age group, it is possible for people to develop lupus at any age, even later on in life.
Who is most likely to get lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect people of any age, gender, or race, however, it is most prevalent among women of childbearing age, African Americans and Hispanics. In terms of age, lupus typically affects individuals between the ages of 15-44 and women are eight times more likely to develop the disease than men.
Those with a family member who has already been diagnosed with lupus are also at a higher risk of developing the condition as well. Nevertheless, while some people may be more likely to get lupus, it is important to note that it can occur in any population.