Lupus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Autoimmune conditionA whole-body autoimmune disease that can inflame the skin, joints, kidneys, blood, heart, lungs, and brain.
For education only — this guide can't diagnose you. If these signs sound familiar, talk with a healthcare provider. Book a consult
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.
Signs worth getting checked
- 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
Treatments your doctor may discuss
- 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
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.