Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

What Is Systemic Lupus?

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), or lupus, is a long-term autoimmune disease. This means your immune system, which normally protects you from illness, mistakenly attacks your own healthy tissues. Lupus can affect many parts of your body, including your joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain.

Common Symptoms:

• Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
• Joint pain and swelling
• Skin rashes ( especially a butterfly-shaped rash on the face)
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Hair loss
• Mouth or nose sores
• Low-grade fevers
• Chest pain or trouble breathing
• Swelling in legs or around the eyes (kidney problems)
• Memory or thinking problems (“lupus fog”)

Who Gets Lupus?

• Most common in women between ages 15 and 45
• More common in African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American individuals
• May run in families

How Is Lupus Diagnosed?

There is no single test. Doctors use:

• Your symptoms
• Blood tests (like ANA, anti-dsDNA, CBC)
• Urine tests (to check for kidney problems)
• Imaging (if organs are affected)

How Is Lupus Treated?

There is no cure, but treatments can help you feel better and prevent damage.

Medications may include:

• Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) – helps control symptoms
• Steroids – to reduce inflammation
• Immune drugs (like methotrexate)
• Biologics – for more severe cases

Living With Lupus:

• Get plenty of rest and pace your activities
• Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing
• Eat a balanced diet and stay active
• Avoid smoking
• Take medications as prescribed
• Keep regular doctor visits