About the Symptoms of Lupus Disease

Lupus is a chronic disorder of the immune system that causes painful inflammation of the tissues and organs of the body. The symptoms of lupus may wax and wane, although some--such as neurological problems--may be permanent and worsen over time.

Fatigue

• According to the Mayo Clinic, fatigue may be a permanent symptom of lupus that makes doing normal daily activities difficult, and it may result in weight gain from lack of activity.

Alopecia

• Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss, and a temporary loss of hair may occur several times in people who have lupus.

Skin

• The Mayo Clinic states that symptoms of lupus include skin that easily bruises without injury--and sores that take a long time to heal or get worse from sunlight.

Raynaud's phenomenon

• According to the Mayo Clinic, Raynaud's phenomenon occurs during a flare up of lupus, and it includes symptoms such as loss of color in fingers and toes when exposed to cold temperatures.

Neurological

• Memory loss, anxiety and depression are neurological symptoms of lupus that may become severe if not treated.

Respiratory

• According to the Mayo Clinic, difficulty with breathing, wheezing and chest pain during physical activity are respiratory symptoms of lupus.

Pain

• Pain in the joints--especially the hips, knees and wrists--are symptoms of lupus that resemble arthritis. They may worsen over time.