What Are the Symptoms of Lupus and How Is It Diagnosed?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a type of lupus that causes inflammation and can trigger various symptoms affecting the joints, skin, or other organs. According to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), many people with lupus develop weight loss, fatigue, and fever.
Studies show that doctors may find lupus difficult to detect, because there may be many symptoms that occur slowly. However, during diagnosis, your doctor may look out for the following symptoms:
- Skin rashes, such as a butterfly-shaped rash on the cheeks
- Mouth sores that last more than a few days
- Arthritis [1] in two or more joints
- Pleuritis [2] and pericarditis
- Kidney problems
- Psychosis [3], stroke [4], or seizures
- Unusual blood test results, such as low blood cell counts
Active lupus may cause kidney inflammation and atherosclerosis, which may cause several health complications if doctors do not detect them.