Recipes

Anti-Inflammatory Pistachio and Date Oatmeal

December 20, 2023

Living with autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing inflammation in the body. While medication plays a crucial role in treatment, diet can also have a significant impact on reducing inflammation. In this blog, we will share a recipe for an anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that can help alleviate symptoms and promote overall wellness. Whether you have an autoimmune disease or simply want to incorporate more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, this recipe is a must-try! So, let’s dive in and discover the healing power of food.

Understanding the role of diet in managing autoimmune diseases

When it comes to managing autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, it’s essential to understand the role that diet plays in promoting overall wellness and reducing inflammation in the body. While medication is crucial for controlling symptoms, incorporating a healthy and balanced diet can significantly support your body’s healing process.

Certain foods have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups. By including these foods in your diet, you can support your immune system and reduce inflammation.

In addition to our recipe for an anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal, here are some other foods that are beneficial for individuals with autoimmune diseases:

1. Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation.

2. Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

3. Turmeric: This spice contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are high in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation.

By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can support your body’s natural healing process and manage your autoimmune disease more effectively. Now, let’s move on to the recipe for our delicious and nutritious anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal!

The power of pistachios and dates in reducing inflammation

Pistachios and dates are two powerful ingredients that can play a crucial role in reducing inflammation and managing autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Both of these ingredients are rich in nutrients and compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Pistachios, for example, are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, which can help combat inflammation in the body. These nuts are particularly rich in a type of antioxidant called polyphenols, which have been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases and reduced inflammation. Additionally, pistachios are a great source of magnesium, a mineral that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.

Dates, on the other hand, are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, all of which contribute to their anti-inflammatory benefits. Dates also contain antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

When combined, pistachios and dates create a powerful duo that can enhance the anti-inflammatory properties of any recipe. In our next section, we will guide you through the simple and easy steps of creating a mouthwatering and nutritious anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal that you can incorporate into your daily routine to support your overall well-being. Stay tuned!

Incorporating oats for added nutritional value

Incorporating oats into your anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal not only adds a comforting and hearty element to your dish but also provides numerous nutritional benefits. Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and promote a healthy gut. This is especially important for those living with autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, as gut health has been linked to the regulation of immune responses.

Oats also contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber that has been shown to help regulate inflammation in the body. Additionally, they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, further enhancing the nutritional profile of your oatmeal.

To incorporate oats into your pistachio date oatmeal, simply cook them according to the package instructions and then mix in the chopped pistachios and dates. This combination of nutrient-rich ingredients will not only make your breakfast delicious but also provide you with the nourishment your body needs to support its overall function.

In the next section, we will walk you through the final steps of preparing and enjoying your anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal. Get ready to start your day off on a healthy and delicious note!

Stay tuned for the next section of our blog, where we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable breakfast option that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Step-by-step recipe for an anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal

Now that you understand the benefits of incorporating oats into your anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal, let’s move on to the final steps of preparing this nutritious and delicious dish.

Step 1: Gather your ingredients – For this recipe, you will need:

– 1 cup of oats

– 1 3/4 cups of almond milk

– 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios

– 1/2 cup of chopped dates

– 1/2 sliver of cinnamon ground to a powder consistency

– 1/4 cup of blueberries

– 1 Tbsp of honey

– Pinch of salt

Step 2: Cook the oats – In a saucepan, bring the almond milk to a boil. Add in the oats and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the oats simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Add the pistachios and dates – Once the oats are cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the chopped pistachios, dates, cinnamon, and blueberries ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the oatmeal.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy – Spoon the pistachio date oatmeal into bowls and add your optional toppings, if desired. Take a moment to appreciate the comforting aroma and vibrant colors of your creation before diving in. With every spoonful, savor the delicious combination of flavors and textures that will nourish your body and support your overall health.

By incorporating this anti-inflammatory pistachio date oatmeal into your morning routine, you are not only starting your day off on a healthy note but also providing your body with the essential nutrients it needs to thrive. Stay tuned for more recipes and lifestyle tips to support your journey towards managing autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Tips and Tricks

How to Get Rid of Your Injections Properly

December 14, 2023

Introduction

Proper injections disposal is a critical aspect of healthcare and public safety. Improper disposal of used needles and other injectable medications can pose serious health risks, including the spread of infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. It is essential to ensure that needles are safely and properly disposed of to protect healthcare workers, waste handlers, and the general public. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of safe needle disposal, providing valuable information on how to properly dispose of injection needles and other injections. By following these guidelines, you can help prevent needlestick injuries and promote a safer healthcare environment.

The importance of proper injection disposal

Proper injections disposal is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in ensuring the safety of individuals who may come into contact with used needles and other injectable medications. The risks associated with improper disposal cannot be overstated. Healthcare workers, waste handlers, and even the general public are at risk of needlestick injuries and the potential transmission of infectious diseases when needles are not disposed of correctly.

One of the key reasons for proper injection disposal is to prevent needlestick injuries. These injuries can have severe consequences, including the transmission of bloodborne pathogens such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. By safely disposing of needles, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidental needle pricks and subsequent infections.

Additionally, proper injection disposal also helps protect waste handlers who come into contact with medical waste. These individuals can be exposed to contaminated needles and other sharp objects if they are not disposed of safely. By following the appropriate disposal methods, we can minimize the risk of injury to these workers and prevent the spread of infections.

In the next section of this guide, we will delve into the specific steps involved in proper injection disposal at home. By following these steps, you can play an active role in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved in the disposal process.

Step 1: Prepare the container

Now that you have gathered all the necessary supplies, it’s time to prepare the container for safe disposal. Follow these steps to ensure proper containment and storage:

1. Ensure the container is puncture-proof and leak-resistant: Check the integrity of the container to make sure that it is sturdy and won’t be easily pierced by needles. Look for containers specifically designed for needle disposal, as they are made to withstand punctures and leaks.

2. Place the container on a stable and sturdy surface: Find a location in your home or facility where the container can be easily accessed but out of reach of children and pets. Make sure it is on a stable and sturdy surface to prevent any accidental tipping or spills.

3. Keep the container upright: It is important to maintain the correct orientation of the container. Always keep it upright to prevent any potential leakage or spills.

4. Do not overfill the container: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the container capacity and do not exceed the fill line. Overfilling the container can increase the risk of needle sticks and may compromise the integrity of the container.

By properly preparing the container, you are taking the necessary precautions to ensure safe disposal. In the next section, we will discuss Step 2, which involves the actual disposal of your injectable medications. Stay tuned for more information on how to safely discard your used needles and syringes.

Step 2: Dispose of the injections safely

Now that you have properly prepared your container, it’s time to safely dispose of the needles and syringes. Follow these steps to ensure safe and proper injection disposal:

1. Carefully insert the used needles or syringes into the container: Make sure to place the needles in the container with the utmost caution. Do not recap the needles, as this poses a risk of needlestick injuries. Simply drop the them into the container.

2. Securely close the container: Once the injections are inside the container, seal it tightly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to securely close and seal the container to prevent any accidental spills or openings.

3. Store the sealed container in a safe location: Keep the sealed container in a place that is out of reach of children and pets. Store it in a secure location away from any potential hazards or areas of high traffic.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safe and proper disposal of your used needles and syringes. In the next section, we will discuss the importance of considering alternative disposal methods and the environmental impact of improper needle disposal. Stay tuned for valuable insights on how to minimize the impact on our surroundings.

Step 3: Secure the container

Now that you have properly disposed of your injection, it is crucial to take extra precautions to ensure the container is securely stored. This step is essential to prevent any accidental spills or needlestick injuries. Follow these guidelines to secure your container properly:

1. Double-check the seal: Before storing the container, inspect the seal to ensure it is completely closed and intact. Look for any signs of damage or potential leaks.

2. Store in a designated area: Choose a designated area for storing your container. It should be a secure location that is easily accessible, yet out of reach of children and pets.

3. Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not expose the container to extreme temperatures, such as direct sunlight or freezing conditions. These can compromise the integrity of the container and increase the risk of spillage.

4. Keep records: It is a good practice to keep a record of when you dispose of each container. This record can serve as a useful reference if ever needed.

By following these steps, you can ensure the containers are properly secured until they are ready for disposal. In the next section, we will discuss the importance of education and awareness in injectable medication disposal and how to spread the message effectively. Stay tuned for valuable insights on promoting safe disposal practices in your community.

Step 4: Properly label and store the container

Properly labeling and storing the container is another crucial step in ensuring safe needle disposal. It not only helps you identify the contents of the container but also prevents any confusion or accidents. Follow these guidelines to label and store your container effectively:

1. Clear and visible labeling: Use a permanent marker to clearly label the container as “Sharps” or “Biohazard.” This can help others identify the potential danger and handle the container with caution.

2. Store in an upright position: Always store the container in an upright position. This prevents any accidental spills or leaks that may occur if the container is knocked over.

3. Keep out of reach: Store the container in a location that is inaccessible to children and pets. Consider using a lockable cabinet or a high shelf to ensure their safety.

4. Do not overfill: Avoid overfilling the container to prevent protrusion of needles. Once the container is around three-quarters full, it is time to seal and dispose of it properly.

Taking these necessary steps in labeling and storing your container can greatly reduce the risks associated with needle disposal. In the next section, we will delve into the importance of community involvement in proper needle disposal practices. Stay tuned for valuable insights on how to engage your community and create a safer environment for all.

Step 5: Disposal options for containers

Proper disposal of needle containers is an essential part of safe needle disposal. You should never toss a needle container in the regular trash or recycling bin as it poses a serious risk to waste management workers and the environment. Instead, consider the following disposal options:

1. Local drop-off locations: Many communities have designated drop-off locations, such as hospitals, pharmacies, or local recycling centers, where you can safely dispose of containers. Contact your local health department or waste management agency to find out the nearest drop-off point.

2. Mail-back programs: Some companies offer mail-back programs where you can safely return your injection container through the mail. These programs provide pre-paid shipping containers that meet all safety regulations.

Here are a few links to mail back programs.

SafeNeedleDisposal .org

MedSharps.com

Stericycle.com

3. Hospital or Nursing Home: Check if your local hospital or nursing home accepts injection containers for proper disposal. In some states like New York State it is mandated by law.

Remember, always research local regulations and guidelines for needle disposal in your area. By utilizing these proper disposal options, you are taking an active role in protecting public health and maintaining a clean environment.

In the next section, we will discuss the importance of raising awareness about safe needle disposal within your community. Stay tuned for valuable tips on how to educate and engage others in this important topic.

Additional tips for safe injections disposal

While proper injeciton container disposal is crucial, there are also some additional tips to keep in mind for safe needle disposal. By following these guidelines, you can further minimize the risk of accidental needlestick injuries and ensure the safety of yourself and others.

a) Never recap needles: Once a needle is used, do not attempt to recap it. Recapping can increase the chances of accidental needlestick injuries. Instead, immediately place the needle in a container.

b) Do not overfill containers: They should only be filled up to the indicated fill line. Overfilling can lead to spills and potential injuries. If your container is full, seal it and dispose of it using one of the previously mentioned methods.

c) Avoid injection disposal in glass or plastic bottles: Using glass or plastic bottles for disposal is not safe nor recommended. These containers may break, can be easily penetrated, and do not provide the same level of protection as proper injection containers.

d) Educate others: Spread awareness about the importance of safe needle disposal to your friends, family, and community. By educating and engaging others, you can help prevent needlestick injuries and promote responsible needle disposal practices.

Remember, safe needle disposal is a collective responsibility. By taking these extra precautions, you play a vital role in ensuring a safer environment for everyone. In the following section, we will discuss the environmental impact of improper needle disposal. Stay tuned to learn more about the consequences and how we can work together to mitigate them.

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Self-Injection Videos

How to give yourself Benlysta

October 16, 2018

How to give yourself Benlysta

Benlysta (belimumab) is a medication used to treat autoantibody positive systemic lupus in conjunction with standard medications such as hydroxychloroquine. Benlysta is available as a monthly infusion but now is available as a weekly subcutaneous injection as an autoinjector and a prefilled syringe.

Preparing for your injection

Keep your medication stored in the refrigerator until use
- Before injecting medication, take the autoinjector out of the refrigerator.
- Allow it to warm up to room temperature.
Pick a place in your house that is clean and has room for your materials (such as the kitchen table).
Wash your hands thoroughly with either:
- Soap & water
- Hand sanitizer
Chose an area to inject – Thigh or Stomach.
- Chose an area that is intact and clear.
- It should not have any of the following:
  - Cuts
  - Scrapes
  - Bruises
  - Psoriasis patches
  - If you have extensive psoriasis, inject between patches
  - Moles
  - Scars
- Please rotate area each time you inject: both thighs and abdomen.

Cleanse chosen area
- Cleanse chosen area with either of the following:
  - Alcohol swab
  - Alcohol and a cotton ball
- Use the chosen alcohol material to “swipe” area
  - Can either use a circular motion or wipe in “strips”
  - Allow the area to dry

The injection with an autoinjector

Take off the cap, observe the medication in the window to be sure that it is clear (no cloudiness or crystals.)
- You will see a small air bubble within the window, this is normal and will not cause harm when injecting
Press down firmly on the clean area of skin, so that the pen is flush with the skin (90-degree angle).
- The pen needle will not eject unless pressed firmly to skin

The injection with a prefilled syringe

Pinch the skin around the injection site and insert the needle at a 45-degree angle
Press in the plunger slowly

You may notice the plunger is hard to press this is due to the size of the medication, be sure to continue to inject slowly to administer all medication

Press button to inject the medication.
- You may feel a slight pinch as the needle enters your skin, and tingling as the medication is administered
- If you have trouble pressing the button try lifting the pen off your skin, and repressing the pen firmly to the area
Hold for 15 seconds.
- Window will become colored (yellow) but continue to hold dose for at least 15 seconds to ensure that all medication is administered

What to do after the injection

Lift the pen up from skin and place the whole pen into the sharps container.
- If you do not have a sharps container available, contact your pharmacy/doctor’s office about obtaining one
  - In the meantime, you may use an old coffee container with a lid
- Some hospitals take full Sharps Containers for disposal. Here at the office we do not. Contact your pharmacy for more information about the disposing of your Sharps Container.
Discard remaining materials in the trash (cap, alcohol swabs, etc.)

If you have any concerns about your medication (e.g., excessive pain, swelling, redness bruising, bleeding, fever, breathing problems), please contact your rheumatologist.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice, but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Diseases and Conditions RheumDoctor Learning Center

What is the complement system?

October 2, 2018

The complement system complements or enhances the immune system. These proteins cause a series of chain events that induce inflammation that helps antibodies clear infection. There are three pathways by which complement helps the immune system:

The classical, alternative, and lectin pathways.

The complement system and disease

The complement system is a perfectly normal part of the immune system but sometimes it goes haywire. Systemic lupus erythematous is a famous example. But there are also some rare diseases such as Degos/malignant atrophic papulosis.

Here is an excellent YouTube video explained the complement system presented by MEDSimplified

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK27100/

Diseases and Conditions

Lupus Nephritis Q&A

August 14, 2018

By Paul Der Mesropian, M.D. Nephrologist

How often does lupus involve the kidneys?

Lupus is an autoimmune, systemic disease that can affect several organs. It affects the kidneys about half the time. Kidney disease is more likely if lupus is active (i.e., there are active inflammatory symptoms or certain blood tests indicating disease activity). However, even patients whose lupus is controlled with medications such as Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine), are at risk for developing a lupus flare involving the kidneys. It is important to periodically monitor for “lupus nephritis”.

What findings may signal lupus nephritis?

Typically, people with lupus nephritis have abnormal laboratory testing about the kidneys. Symptoms related to kidney dysfunction are usually present but are more likely to appear when the kidney disease is more advanced.

What are some of the symptoms associated with kidney disease?

Foamy or dark/ bloody urine
Decrease in urination
Fatigue or malaise
Swelling (in the legs, arms, or face)
Weight gain
Increase in blood pressure (above 130/80)

What laboratory tests detect lupus nephritis?

Kidneys clean the blood of waste products. They do this by filtering the blood through millions of small filtration units (about 1 million in each kidney), resulting in the production of urine. Normally, when this process occurs, blood or proteins found within it should not enter (or “leak”) into the urine. However, if there is inflammation of the small filters which make up the kidneys, blood or an abnormal amount of protein can leak in the urine. Inflammation can also impair kidney function (i.e., the cleaning ability of the kidneys as measured on bloodwork). For this reason, it’s important to regularly perform a urinalysis to check for blood or protein, and routinely monitor kidney function with a blood test called creatinine (a value of generally 1 mg/dl or below is considered normal in adults).

At what intervals should kidney tests be monitored?

Scenario #1

If there is no previous history of lupus nephritis, a urinalysis and creatinine in the blood should be checked at least semi-annually (every 6 months).

Scenario #2

If there is a history of lupus nephritis, quarterly lab monitoring (every 3 months).

Scenario #3

If there is active lupus nephritis, frequent lab monitoring, at least monthly, is recommended during treatment.

When should a kidney specialist be seen?

Patients with evidence of active lupus nephritis, characterized by blood or significant protein leaking into urine and/or reduced kidney function, should see a kidney doctor. Almost always, a kidney biopsy would be necessary to confirm the diagnosis, determine how advanced the process is, and direct the treatment plan.

A kidney biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is taken with a needle and then examined under the microscope by a pathologist to obtain the most accurate diagnosis possible.

What are the treatment options for lupus nephritis?

Specific treatment usually involves powerful immunosuppressive medications —either Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide) or CellCept (mycophenolate mofetil) in combination with steroids—to calm down the inflammation and hopefully improve kidney function.

Nonspecific medications known as “ACE inhibitors” (such as lisinopril) or “angiotensin receptor blockers” (such as losartan) may also be used to reduce protein leaking into the urine, if present (these are also blood pressure-lowering medications).

Special attention to the medication regimen needs be paid in patients who are or want to get pregnant.

In the worst-case scenario, lupus nephritis can severely damage the kidneys to the point where therapy that replaces kidneys—namely, dialysis or kidney transplantation—becomes necessary.

Conclusion

If you live with lupus or someone dear to you does, and you want to get involved fighting “one of the world’s cruelest, most unpredictable, and devastating diseases, support your local Lupus Foundation of America chapter!

Medical Disclaimer

Diseases and Conditions When to see a rheumatologist

10 Important warning signs of systemic lupus

February 27, 2018

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that presents in many ways. The disease is characterized by the production of autoantibodies that deposit onto tissue and fix complement on almost any organ which causes systemic inflammation. Typically it affects women (9:1) aged between 15 and 45 years and it tends to affect people of African-American, Asian, and Hispanic descent more so than Caucasians: 3 to 4 times higher.[1]

This is a very complex condition and we’re still trying to understand the underlying cause and trying to find effective treatments. Even diagnosis remains challenging at times. Today I’d like to go over 10 important warning signs of systemic lupus.

Criteria for the classification of SLE

The following are the criteria for the diagnosis of SLE. To fulfill criteria you need to have at least 4 criteria with at least one coming from the clinical section and one coming from the immunological section. An exception to the rule is if someone has a kidney biopsy that shows lupus nephritis in the presence of a positive ANA or other lupus-related autoantibody.

It’s important to note that there are exceptions to the rule. These criteria are meant to be used in research and we all know that real life sometimes doesn’t fit the mold! Also, as researchers make more discoveries, classification systems change. The Autoimmunity Blog has a great pdf showing how these criteria evolved with time.

Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics Classification Criteria for SLE (2012)

Criterion	Definition
Clinical Criteria
1. ACLE (acute cutaneous lupus erythematosus)	Malar rash, bullous lupus, TEN variant, maculopapular, photosensitive, subacute cutaneous lupus
2. CCLE (chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus)	Classic discoid, hypertrophic, lupus panniculitis/profundus, mucosal, lupus erythematosus tumidus, chilblains lupus, discoid/lichen panus overlap
3. Alopecia	Non-scarring, diffuse hair thinning or visible broken hairs
4. Oral ulcers	Oral (palate, buccal, tongue) or nasal ulceration
5. Synovitis	Arthritis involving two or more peripheral joints, characterized by tenderness, swelling, or effusion and morning stiffness > 30 minutes
6. Serositis	Pleuritis: convincing history of pleuritic chest pain for >1 days or pleural rub or evidence of pleural effusion, or Pericarditis documented by EKG or rub, or evidence of a pericardial effusion
7. Renal disorder	Persistent protein ≥ 0.5 grams/day or red blood cell casts
8. Neurological disorder	Seizures, psychosis, myelitis, mononeuritis multiplex, peripheral or cranial neuropathy, acute confusional state
9. Hemolytic anemia	Direct Coombs positive
10. Leukopenia	Leukopenia < 4000/mm³ at least once or lymphopenia < 1000/mm³ at least once
11. Thrombocytopenia	Platelets < 100 000/ mm³
Immunological Criteria
1. Positive ANA	Level above laboratory reference
2. Anti-dsDNA	Level above laboratory reference range (or >2-fold ELISA reference range)
3. Anti-Sm	Presence of antibody to Sm nuclear antigen
4. Antiphospholipid antibody – Positive lupus anticoagulant – False positive for rapid plasma regain – Medium titer or high titer anticardiolipin antibody level – Positive anti-β-glycoprotein I
5. Low complements	Low C3, low C4, or low CH50
6. Direct Coombs test	In the absence of hemolytic anemia

RheumDoctor’s simplified lupus criteria

As you can see these criteria are somewhat complicated and use A LOT of “medicalese”. Let’s try simplifying things! Basically, the criteria include clinical features and blood tests that show abnormal changes with the immune system. The clinical criteria do include some blood tests like white cells, blood cells, platelets, and urine, but these are NOT tests that specifically show problems with the immune system. They are abnormal BECAUSE the immune system is affecting them.

10 Important warning signs of systemic lupus erythematosus

Rash
Hair loss
Oral and/or nose ulcers
Autoimmune joint pain
Chest pain
Kidney problems
Neurologic or psychiatry changes
Anemia
Frequent infections
Easy bruising or bleeding

Other symptoms that are not included in the criteria include profound fatigue, fevers, unintentional weight loss, and Raynaud’s phenomenon.

Rash

The first thing that pops up in most people’s mind when they think about lupus is the famous “butterfly” rash, more specifically the malar rash. This type of rash is one of many ways the disease can inflame the skin. DermNet New Zealand has a great selection of examples. People with lupus also tend to get a rash when their skin is exposed to the sun (photosensitivity). Sometimes exposure to the sun can cause a systemic flare, e.g., cause joint pain, swelling, and fatigue.

Hair loss

Unless the hair loss is caused by a rash, e.g., discoid lupus, hair loss tends not to scar. It can happen in patches or simply be generalized.

Oral and/or nose ulcers

Almost everyone gets a canker sore once in a while. People with lupus often get multiple ulcers over and over again. They usually DON’T hurt.

Autoimmune joint pain

Autoimmune joint pain or inflammatory arthritis looks very similar to the joint pain that people have with rheumatoid arthritis. However, joint inflammation caused by lupus is NON-EROSIVE, meaning that people do not get permanent joint deformities. Like rheumatoid arthritis, joints get swollen, tender, and they tend to stay stiff for at least 30 minutes to an hour in the morning.

Chest pain

Lupus can cause pleuritic and pericarditis. Basically, the lining of the lungs (pleuritic) or the lining of the heart (pericarditis) get inflamed. This can cause sharp chest pain and sometimes can cause fluid to accumulate around the lungs or heart. Usually this type of chest pain worsens when you take a deep breath and in the case of pericarditis, improves when you lean forward.

If you are experiencing chest pain, don’t mess around, go to the emergency room. People with lupus have a higher risk of heart disease. In fact, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people with lupus. So you need to rule out a heart attack.

Kidney problems

Lupus can cause inflammation in the kidneys (lupus nephritis). There are 6 types. It’s important to know what type we’re dealing with when making treatment decisions. Lupus nephritis doesn’t cause “kidney pain”. The symptoms of kidney malfunction include:

Weight gain (water weight)
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Dark urine
Frothy or foamy urine
Leg swelling
The need to urinate during the night

Neurologic and/or psychiatric changes

These are probably the most difficult to diagnose features of lupus. They vary widely are terribly non-specific. People with lupus who present with neurological symptoms can present with a stroke, limb weakness, small fiber neuropathy, seizures, and even psychiatric changes like schizophrenia or major depression. Close collaboration with a rheumatologist, neurologist, and psychiatrist is often required.

Anemia

Lupus can cause many different types of anemia: anemia of chronic disease, hemolytic anemia, kidney failure, etc. Some symptoms of anemia include:

Loss of energy
Rapid heart beat
Shortness of breath
Headache
Difficulty concentrating
Dizziness
Pale skin
Leg cramps
Insomnia
Hemolytic anemia can also cause yellowing the eyes/sclera (jaundice)

Frequent infections

Many people with lupus get frequent infections. For the most part this is caused by medications used to treat lupus but sometimes it can be the main culprit. Lupus can cause white blood cells and specialized white cells called lymphocytes to decrease in number. These cells are part of the immune system and help your body fight off infection. If they are critically low, you can get frequent infections.

Easy bruising and bleeding

Platelets are specialized cells in your blood that prevent bleeding and help stop bleeding. Lupus can cause a reduction in platelet levels. Some symptoms of low platelets (thrombocytopenia) include:

Easy bruising with minimal trauma
Spontaneous + superficial bleeding into the skin (petechiae)
Prolonged bleeding
Bleeding from the gums after brushing your teeth
Unusually heavy menstrual flow
Blood in your urine or stool
Having a big spleen

I think I may have lupus?

If you think you may have lupus, talk to your primary care physician, your GP, or make a consultation with a licensed rheumatologist. Remember this is not a common disease, so more often than not, it isn’t lupus. Because the condition can affect many organ systems, it can mimic many diseases. Most of these are much more common than lupus.