Systemic lupus erythematosus is a long-term autoimmune condition wherein the body’s immune system begins to attack its own tissues and organs. Inflammation caused by lupus can affect various parts of the body, including joints, skin, blood cells, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs. This condition affects everyone differently; symptoms generally appear in early adulthood (teens to early 30s). Below, one can find the early signs and symptoms of lupus to watch out for:

Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of lupus is fatigue. It affects over 90% of people with this condition. If fatigue begins to impact one’s daily life, it may be time to visit the doctor.

Unexplained fever
Another common symptom of this condition is a persistent, low-grade fever (between 98.5℉ and 101.1℉). It is generally a sign of inflammation or a flare-up.

Hair loss
Inflammation in the skin and scalp causes the hair to start thinning on the head, beard, eyebrows, eyelashes, and the rest of the body. Those with lupus may also lose hair by the clump. Lupus treatment can help reverse this process and encourage new hair growth.

Skin lesions or rashes
A butterfly-shaped rash on the face is one of the most visible signs of lupus. It may occur suddenly, after exposure to sunlight, or just before a flare. People with this condition may also develop non-itchy lesions on the rest of their bodies and discoloration in the fingers and toes.

Painful, swollen joints
One of the most common signs of inflammation in the body is stiffness or joint pain. This may range from mild to severe.

Dry mouth, dry eyes
People with lupus may also develop a dry mouth and a gritty sensation in their eyes. They may also be more susceptible to developing other autoimmune conditions, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, which can cause the tear and saliva glands to malfunction and lead to skin and vaginal dryness.

Pulmonary issues
Those with lupus may also develop inflammation in the lungs and lung blood vessels, causing pain during breathing. This is known as pleuritic chest pain. If left untreated, these breathing issues may lead to lung size reduction. Also known as shrinking lung syndrome, this condition has symptoms such as ongoing chest pain and shortness of breath.

Kidney inflammation
Inflammation in the body may make it difficult for the kidneys to filter toxins and waste. This may lead to nephritis. Some symptoms of this condition include swelling in the legs and feet, high blood pressure, blood in the urine, darker urine, frequent urge to pass urine at night, and pain on the side of the body. If left untreated, this may even progress to end-stage renal disease (ENRD).

Gastrointestinal problems
Lupus may also cause gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn, acid reflux, etc. Limiting one’s caffeine intake and making certain other lifestyle changes may help reduce the severity of these symptoms. In case of persistent symptoms, however, visiting the doctor is advisable.

Thyroid problems
Those with lupus may also develop an autoimmune thyroid disorder. This affects one’s metabolism and vital organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys, and liver. It may also cause symptoms such as dry skin and hair and moodiness.

Several studies are being conducted on the use of vitamins to alleviate symptoms of autoimmune conditions such as lupus. Vitamin D and fish oil have gained significant attention in this process.

Vitamin D is essential for building healthy bones and maintaining immune function. Those with lupus generally have lower levels of this vitamin, generally because sunshine may trigger a flare. However, a year-long study has shown that people with lupus who took vitamin D supplements showed less disease activity and lower levels of fatigue.

Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation. Consuming fish oil may help reduce lupus flares and fatigue and improve the quality of life for people with lupus.