How does lupus affect the bowels?

Lupus can affect the bowels in a number of ways. Some of the most common bowel symptoms of lupus include:

- Abdominal pain: Lupus can cause inflammation in the bowels, which can lead to abdominal pain. The pain may be mild or severe, and it may be constant or intermittent.

- Diarrhea: Lupus can also cause diarrhea, which is loose, watery stools. Diarrhea can be mild or severe, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain and nausea.

- Constipation: Lupus can also cause constipation, which is difficult or infrequent bowel movements. Constipation can be mild or severe, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain and bloating.

- Gas and bloating: Lupus can also cause gas and bloating, which is an uncomfortable feeling of fullness in the abdomen. Gas and bloating can be mild or severe, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain and nausea.

- Bloody stools: Lupus can also cause bloody stools, which is a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract. Bloody stools can be mild or severe, and they may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

If you have lupus and you are experiencing any of these bowel symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to rule out other causes and to get treatment for your symptoms.