Lupus vs. Fibromyalgia: What’s the Difference?

Lupus and fibromyalgia are both chronic conditions that can cause widespread pain and fatigue. However, there are some key differences between the two conditions.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own tissues. This can lead to inflammation and damage to the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain. Lupus can be mild or severe, and it can affect people of all ages.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It is also accompanied by fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive difficulties. Fibromyalgia is more common in women than in men, and it typically develops between the ages of 30 and 50.

Lupus and fibromyalgia can have similar symptoms, but there are some key differences

Symptoms of lupus may include:

Fatigue

Achy joints

Swollen glands

Muscle weakness

Fever

Skin rashes

Kidney problems

Neurological problems

Symptoms of fibromyalgia may include:

Widespread pain

Fatigue

Sleep problems

Cognitive difficulties

Headaches

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Depression and anxiety

Lupus can be diagnosed with a blood test that looks for autoantibodies, which are antibodies that attack the body's own tissues. A lupus diagnosis may also be based on symptoms and a physical exam. Fibromyalgia is diagnosed based on symptoms and a physical exam. There is no blood test for fibromyalgia.

Treatment for lupus typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. Treatment for fibromyalgia typically involves medications to relieve pain and fatigue, as well as exercise and lifestyle changes.

Lupus and fibromyalgia are both chronic conditions, but they can be managed with treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of lupus or fibromyalgia, talk to your doctor.