Lupus is a chronic disease of the immune system. The immune system is the body’s defense system. For example, the immune system protects us from getting sick from infections. With lupus, the immune system mistakes the body’s normal cells as foreign and attacks them. This causes damage and swelling all over the body. 

Lupus affects different parts of our body. Common places include the joints, skin, brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels. As a result, people with lupus may develop symptoms in different parts of the body. The disease affects everyone differently. Most people have a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include joint pain and swelling, fatigue, and skin rashes. Symptoms may come and go. Periods of severe symptoms are called “flares.” Some people may have periods with little to no symptoms.  

 

effects of lupus

If you think you may have lupus, talk to your doctor about what you are feeling. 

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects people to different degrees!