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Lupus

Also called: Systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE

An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy parts of the body, like the skin, joints, kidneys, and blood. Symptoms come and go in flares. There's no cure, but treatment controls it for most people.

TypeAn autoimmune disease
Most affectedWomen ages 15 to 44
Classic signButterfly rash on the cheeks
Key medicineHydroxychloroquine
ContagiousNo

Overview

Lupus causes inflammation that can affect many organs. Some people have mild skin and joint symptoms; others have serious kidney, heart, lung, or brain involvement.

It's more common and often more severe in Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American women.

Symptoms

Symptoms differ widely and come and go.

  • Pain or swelling in many joints
  • Butterfly-shaped rash on the face
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Fever

Less common

  • Rash after sun exposure
  • Mouth sores
  • Hair loss
  • Swelling in legs or around eyes
  • Chest pain when breathing
  • Fingers turning white or blue in the cold

When to get medical care

Call 911Chest pain, trouble breathing, seizures, confusion, or stroke signs.
Get care todayHigh fever, new leg swelling, foamy urine, or a severe flare.
See a doctor soonJoint pain with rash, fatigue, and fevers that come and go.

Causes

Genes, hormones, and environmental triggers like sunlight, infections, and some medicines play a part.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
  • It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Women ages 15 to 44
  • Black, Hispanic, Asian, or Native American ancestry
  • Family history

Possible complications

Diagnosis

There's no single test. Doctors look at symptoms and lab results together.

Questions you may be asked

  • Rashes, joint pain, fevers, and sun sensitivity
  • Family history of autoimmune disease

The exam

They'll check skin, joints, and organs.

Tests

Tests:

  • ANA and other antibody tests: Most people with lupus have a positive ANA.
  • Blood counts and urine tests: Check blood cells and kidneys.

Treatment

Treatment calms the immune system and prevents organ damage.

Self-care

  • Protect your skin from the sun
  • Rest and pace yourself
  • Exercise gently
  • Don't smoke
  • Learn your flare warning signs

Medicines

Common lupus medicines:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Hydroxychloroquine
Most people with lupusNeeds yearly eye exams.
Steroids
FlaresLong-term use has side effects.
Immune medicines
Organ involvement or frequent flaresRaise infection risk.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Most people take hydroxychloroquine long term. Steroids and other immune medicines treat flares and organ involvement. Regular kidney checks are important.

Prevention

Lupus can't be prevented, but flares can be reduced:

  • Take medicines regularly
  • Use sunscreen
  • Get enough rest
  • Keep up with checkups

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a rheumatologist (joint and immune system doctor).

Living with it

  • Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
  • Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
  • Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
  • Get enough sleep and manage stress.
  • Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people can keep working or going to school.
  • Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Pregnancy: Plan with your care team; lupus should be calm for 6 months before pregnancy.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most people with lupus live a normal lifespan with treatment and regular care.

Getting ready for your visit

Track symptoms and flares.

What to bring

  • Photos of rashes
  • Symptom diary

Questions to ask

  • Which organs are affected?
  • How do I prevent flares?
  • Is pregnancy safe for me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Lupus

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.