Lupus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Autoimmune conditionA whole-body autoimmune disease that can inflame the skin, joints, kidneys, blood, heart, lungs, and brain.
What happens
The immune system makes antibodies against parts of the body's own cells (antinuclear antibodies, or ANA). Antibodies and immune complexes settle in tissues and cause inflammation. Lupus usually comes and goes in flares and quieter periods.
Who gets it
About 9 in 10 people with lupus are women, most often diagnosed between 15 and 45. It's more common, and often more severe, in Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American women.
Common signs
- Extreme fatigue
- Joint pain and swelling
- A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose
- Rashes or flares after sun exposure
- Mouth or nose sores
- Hair loss
- Fevers without an infection
- Chest pain when breathing deeply
- Swollen legs or foamy urine
- Fingers turning white or blue in the cold (Raynaud's)
Labs to ask about
- ANA (a negative result makes lupus unlikely; a positive result alone doesn't mean lupus)
- Anti-dsDNA and anti-Smith antibodies
- Complement levels (C3 and C4)
- Complete blood count
- Urinalysis and urine protein
- Kidney function
How it's usually treated
- Hydroxychloroquine for most people
- Steroids and immune-suppressing medicines when organs are involved
- Biologic medicines for some people
- Regular kidney monitoring
- Planning pregnancy with a specialist
Supportive steps to discuss with your provider
- Use broad-spectrum sun protection every day. UV light can trigger flares.
- Protect your sleep and pace your energy.
- Check vitamin D, which often runs low when you avoid the sun.
- Ask before taking immune-stimulating supplements. Alfalfa sprouts and supplements have been linked to lupus flares.
See a doctor promptly if you have
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Swollen legs, or foamy or bloody urine
- A seizure, severe headache, or confusion: call 911
- Fever over 101°F (38.3°C) while taking immune-suppressing medicine
Related conditions
Antiphospholipid syndrome
Antibodies make the blood more likely to clot, raising the risk of blood clots, strokes, and pregnancy complications.
Learn more →Sjögren's disease
The immune system targets the glands that make tears and saliva, causing lasting dryness. It can also affect joints, nerves, and other organs.
Learn more →Rheumatoid arthritis
The immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing painful swelling that can damage cartilage and bone if untreated.
Learn more →
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.