Lupus is a chronic disease caused by the body's immune system attacking tissues and organs, resulting in inflammation. Nearly every organ and tissue of the body can be affected by lupus, including the skin, bones and circulatory and digestive systems. The symptoms of lupus may be temporary or permanent and depend on the type of lupus and the severity of the condition.
Joint Pain
According to the Mayo Clinic, lupus may attack the joints of the knees, hip, spine and wrists and cause pain, stiffness and swelling.
Mouth Sores
Lupus may cause the development of painful lesions or sores inside the mouth and on the tongue, insides of the cheeks and throat.
Kidney Damage
Lupus can attack the kidneys, which causes symptoms such as chest pain, nausea, vomiting, weight gain and itching all over the body.
Neurological
The central nervous system may be attacked by lupus, resulting in symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, loss of memory, personality changes and seizures.
Vascular Disease
Problems with internal bleeding, inflammation of the veins, blood clots and anemia are symptoms of lupus attacking the blood cells.
Avascular Necrosis
Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue due to the loss of blood supply and, according to the Mayo Clinic, may be a direct result of lupus or caused by the steroid treatments used for lupus.
Pregnancy Complications
Women with lupus are at an increased risk of developing toxemia, having a miscarriage, premature delivery or a low birth weight baby.
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