7 Subtle Signs of Lupus You Can’t Ignore

What is Lupus and Its Early Symptoms?

Lupus is one of the common autoimmune diseases that causes a wide range of symptoms. These symptoms can affect any part of the body, including the joints, skin, internal organs, or blood vessels.

Diagnosing lupus in its early stages can be challenging because its symptoms resemble those of many other conditions. Symptoms often begin in early adulthood and can vary in severity from one person to another.

Below, we discuss the most prominent early symptoms of lupus and how to manage them.

Early Symptoms of Lupus

1. General Fatigue
Persistent fatigue is one of the most common and bothersome symptoms of lupus, especially among women. Patients may feel extreme tiredness even after getting sufficient rest. Engaging in light or moderate exercise and taking certain supplements, such as vitamin D, may help alleviate fatigue.

2. Low-Grade Fever
Unexplained low-grade fever is a hallmark of lupus, with patients experiencing mild, recurrent fevers. It’s important to consult a doctor if such fevers persist.

3. Joint Pain
Lupus causes joint inflammation, leading to pain, stiffness, and noticeable swelling, especially in the morning. Warm compresses can help alleviate joint pain, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a specialist.

4. Skin Changes
Skin-related symptoms include:

• Inflammation of Skin Blood Vessels: Appears as itchy sores.
• Livedo Reticularis: A purplish, net-like pattern on the skin.
• Mouth and Nasal Ulcers: Red spots surrounded by white rings.
• Butterfly Rash: A red rash that appears on the cheeks and nose.
• Hives: Red, itchy patches that can last for over 24 hours.

5. Digestive Issues
Lupus can cause gastrointestinal problems, including heartburn, nausea, bloating, and vomiting. These symptoms can be managed by eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding caffeine, and using over-the-counter antacids.

6. Respiratory Problems
Lupus may lead to inflammation in the respiratory system, including:

• Pleurisy: Inflammation of the lining surrounding the lungs.
• Pneumonia: Inflammation of lung tissues.
  Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or fever arise.

7. Hair Loss
Hair loss is often one of the earliest noticeable signs of lupus. This can occur due to damage to hair follicles or from rashes and sores on the scalp. In most cases, the hair loss is temporary.

8. Other Early Symptoms

• Muscle and tendon pain.
• Dry mouth and eyes, often linked to Sjögren’s syndrome.
• Thyroid disorders.
• Photosensitivity: Sun exposure can exacerbate skin rashes and other lupus symptoms.

Medical Advice

It’s crucial to recognize the early signs and symptoms of lupus and seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help control symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.