Lupus, also known as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs in the body. It is characterized by periods of flares (when symptoms are active) and remissions (when there are no symptoms).

The symptoms of lupus can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Below are some of the common symptoms of lupus:.

Skin Symptoms

One of the most common symptoms of lupus is skin rashes. These rashes can be widespread or localized and can range from mild to severe. The rashes can appear on the face, neck, arms, legs, and other parts of the body.

The most common type of rash is a butterfly-shaped rash that appears on the face. Other skin symptoms can include:.

Red, scaly patches
Small, fluid-filled blisters
Itchy, raised bumps
Hives
Hair loss

Musculoskeletal Symptoms

Lupus can also cause inflammation in the joints, muscles, and bones. This inflammation can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. Other musculoskeletal symptoms can include:.

Joint pain and swelling
Muscle pain and weakness
Osteoporosis (bone loss)
Tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons)

Cardiovascular Symptoms

Lupus can affect the heart and blood vessels, leading to a number of cardiovascular symptoms. These symptoms can include:.

Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Palpitations (irregular heartbeats)
High blood pressure
High cholesterol

Respiratory Symptoms

Lupus can also affect the respiratory system, leading to a number of respiratory symptoms. These symptoms can include:.

Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Dry cough
Pleurisy (inflammation of the lining of the lungs)

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Lupus can cause problems with the digestive system, leading to a number of gastrointestinal symptoms. These symptoms can include:.

Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Loss of appetite

Renal Symptoms

Lupus can also affect the kidneys, leading to a number of renal symptoms. These symptoms can include:.

Swelling in the legs and feet
Urine that appears foamy or bubbly
High blood pressure
Proteinuria (excess protein in the urine)
Kidney failure

Neurological Symptoms

Lupus can affect the nervous system, leading to a number of neurological symptoms. These symptoms can include:.

Headaches
Migraines
Seizures
Memory loss
Anxiety

Hematological Symptoms

Lupus can also affect the blood and blood-forming tissues, leading to a number of hematological symptoms. These symptoms can include:.

Easy bruising
Anemia (low red blood cell count)
Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
Leukopenia (low white blood cell count)

Other Symptoms

In addition to the above symptoms, lupus can also cause a number of other symptoms, including:.

Fatigue
Fever
Weight loss
Mouth sores
Sensitivity to sunlight

Conclusion

Lupus is a complex autoimmune disease that can cause a wide range of symptoms that vary from person to person. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.