Lupus Flare Up

Overview

Lupus is an autoimmune condition that primarily affects the skin, joints, and organs. It can also involve the nervous system.

Lupus symptoms usually come and go in waves called flare-ups. These can vary, but common flare-up symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Joint pain and swelling
• Skin rashes or lesions
• Fever
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Headaches or migraines
• Hair loss

Triggers for lupus flare-ups can include:

• Overwork and lack of rest
• Stress
• Sun exposure or exposure to fluorescent/halogen light
• Infection
• Injury
• Stopping lupus medications or taking certain other medications

To treat a lupus flare-up, you can try:

• Light exercise and stretching
• Warm showers or baths
• Heat therapy (e.g., warm compress)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ask your doctor)
• An anti-inflammatory diet
• Physical therapy
• Prescription medications (as prescribed by your doctor)
• Massage therapy

To reduce trigger exposure and prevent future flare-ups, consider:

• Limiting UV exposure by avoiding excessive sun exposure and wearing protective clothing and sunscreen.
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling.
• Getting enough rest and practicing good sleep hygiene.
• Taking prescribed medications regularly.

Contact your doctor or seek medical help if:

• Your symptoms worsen or become severe.
• You experience new symptoms that concern you.
• Your current treatment is not effectively managing your symptoms.

Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for side effect information.