Understanding Lupus: Symptoms, Treatment, and Daily Life

What Is Lupus?

Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease. This means the immune system, which normally protects the body from illness, mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation, pain, and damage in areas like the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain.

Lupus affects each person differently, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. While it’s a lifelong condition, many people with lupus lead full and active lives with the right care and support.

Who Does Lupus Affect?

Lupus can affect anyone, but it’s most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 15 and 45. It is also more prevalent among people of African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American descent.

While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, lupus likely results from a combination of genetics, hormones, and environmental triggers.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Lupus can be tricky to diagnose because its symptoms often mimic those of other conditions, and they may come and go in unpredictable flare-ups. Common signs include:

• Fatigue
• Joint pain or swelling
• Skin rashes, often in a butterfly shape across the cheeks and nose
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Fever
• Hair loss
• Chest pain
• Mouth sores
• Kidney problems or swelling in the legs/feet

If you or a loved one is experiencing multiple unexplained symptoms, especially in cycles of flares and remission, talk to a provider. Early diagnosis can lead to better long-term outcomes.

Managing Lupus: Treatments and Lifestyle

There is currently no cure for lupus, but with proper care, symptoms can often be managed effectively.

• Medical Treatment
• Anti-inflammatory drugs: To reduce pain and swelling
• Immunosuppressants: To calm the overactive immune response
• Antimalarials (like hydroxychloroquine): Often used to treat fatigue, joint pain, and skin symptoms
• Corticosteroids: For more severe inflammation or organ involvement

Your care team may include a rheumatologist and other specialists, depending on how lupus affects your body.

Daily Lifestyle Tips

Prioritize rest and pacing: Fatigue is one of the most common lupus symptoms. Listen to your body and avoid overexertion.

• Stay active (gently): Light to moderate exercise, like walking or yoga, can help with joint stiffness and boost energy.
• Eat a balanced diet: Anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains can support overall health.
• Protect your skin: Wear sunscreen daily—even on cloudy days—as sun exposure can trigger flares.
• Keep stress in check: Stress can worsen symptoms. Try breathing exercises, journaling, or talking with a counselor.

Finding the Right Support

Lupus can affect your physical health, but it also takes a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. You don’t have to go through it alone.

1. Build a care team: Having a supportive, knowledgeable medical team makes a world of difference.
2. Join a support group: Sharing your experiences with others who understand can be comforting and empowering.
3. Communicate with loved ones: Help friends and family understand what lupus is—and how they can support you.

St. Mary’s Is Here for You

Living with lupus can feel unpredictable, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At St. Mary’s, we’re committed to providing whole-person care—offering expert medical support, thoughtful guidance, and a listening ear whenever you need it.

If you have questions about lupus or think you might be experiencing symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can help you manage lupus and continue living life on your terms.