Systemic lupus erythematosus symptoms

Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
Updated on November 24, 2024
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The symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus mainly include fever, oral ulcers, facial erythema, including discoid and malar rash, photosensitivity, joint pain, polyserositis, including pleural effusion and pericardial effusion, as well as kidney involvement. The main manifestations are positive urinary protein, hematuria, and casts in the urine. Severe cases may have neurological involvement, presenting as epilepsy, mental disorders, or altered consciousness. Blood tests in these patients can further reveal positive ANA, anti-double-stranded DNA, and anti-Sm antibodies, as well as low complement levels. These are the related symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Typical skin manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus

The most typical skin rashes of systemic lupus erythematosus are called butterfly rash and discoid rash. The so-called butterfly rash is a rash on both sides of the nostrils, resembling the wings of a butterfly, and the so-called discoid rash is a circular, disc-shaped rash on the facial area. At the same time, patients with systemic lupus erythematosus may also experience reticular purpura or vasculitic rashes like those of end-finger vasculitis, all of which are typical manifestations of skin rashes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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What department should I go to for systemic lupus erythematosus?

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease and can test positive for multiple antibodies, affecting various organs throughout the body. Its primary manifestations are damage to the skin, mucous membranes, and kidneys. The most common and characteristic symptom is the butterfly rash on the skin and mucous membranes. Some people may also experience facial rashes, blisters, and even chilblain-like changes. Such skin changes should be viewed with caution. Additionally, symptoms can include general weakness and low-grade fever. This condition requires formal treatment from a rheumatology and immunology department.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Can systemic lupus erythematosus be cured?

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease and is chronic. The cause of the disease is mostly unclear, but studies have shown that it is related to genetics, environmental pollution, viral infections, hormone levels, and other factors. As an autoimmune disease, it cannot be completely cured. The main purpose of treatment is to control symptoms, delay the onset of complications, and improve the quality of life. The preferred treatment involves corticosteroids. The dosage should be adjusted according to the condition; after stabilizing, the dosage should gradually be reduced to a small maintenance dose. It is important to continue the medication even during maintenance therapy, as discontinuing the medication can lead to a recurrence of the disease. Additionally, chilling, fatigue, infection, and sun exposure can all trigger the activity of lupus, so it is important to be cautious in daily life. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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Can systemic lupus erythematosus become pregnant?

Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a multisystemic, systemic autoimmune disease that can involve multiple organs throughout the body. Regarding the issue of whether one with systemic lupus erythematosus can become pregnant, it cannot be generalized and must be considered in conjunction with the condition of the disease. For example, if the disease is in its early stages and has been stabilized through treatment, then it is possible to become pregnant. If systemic lupus erythematosus has already presented with severe complications, such as lupus nephritis, significant proteinuria, or an increase in creatinine urea, affecting kidney function and causing kidney damage, then it is not recommended to become pregnant during this period. Pregnancy at this time not only offers no substantial benefit to the person with systemic lupus erythematosus but can also increase the burden on the kidneys, leading to further deterioration of kidney function, which can be life-threatening.

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Written by Li Jing
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Dietary Restrictions for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Firstly, systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems, including the skin, heart, kidneys, lungs, and nervous system, among other organs. The skin, kidneys, and lungs are the most commonly affected organs. If the kidneys are affected and proteinuria occurs, it is necessary to restrict salt intake. The general principle is to have a low-salt, low-fat diet, and to limit the intake of high-quality proteins, which mainly refers to lean meats and pure milk. It is necessary to drink more water, avoid sun exposure, avoid oral contraceptives, and in terms of diet, fruits such as figs and mangoes that have been exposed to sunlight for a long time are prohibited, including tomatoes, while other fruits can be consumed in moderation.