World Lupus Day 2025: Causes, symptoms and treatment options of the autoimmune condition

Symptoms of lupus may range from mild discomfort to severe organ damage. Though it can affect anyone, it is most commonly seen in women of childbearing age (Image: Canva)

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), more commonly known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune condition. Its symptoms are mostly similar to that of other diseases, making it notoriously difficult to diagnose.

Lupus occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation that can affect multiple organs including the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs, heart and brain, says Dr Indrajit Agrawal, Clinical Director, Rheumatology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram. “Lupus is a multi-system disorder with a wide range of presentations. This makes diagnosis challenging, but not impossible, especially if there's awareness,” he explains.

According to Dr Agarwal, the condition can occur with periods of remission followed by unpredictable flare-ups. “Symptoms of lupus may range from mild discomfort to severe organ damage. Though it can affect anyone, it is most commonly seen in women of childbearing age. Genetics, environmental triggers like sunlight and infections, stress, and hormonal fluctuations all play roles in its onset and progression. Its symptoms can resemble those of arthritis, thyroid disorders, and infections. This makes diagnosis long. Hence, one of the biggest challenges in managing lupus is recognising it early. Patients may go undiagnosed for years, during which time the disease may already be affecting critical organs,” he adds.

Also read | World Lupus Day: How does sun exposure impact lupus symptoms, and how it can be minimised

Common symptoms of lupus

Recognising early signs of lupus is essential for timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Common symptoms of lupus include persistent fatigue despite adequate rest, low-grade or unexplained fevers, and joint pain accompanied by stiffness or swelling. “Many patients also experience a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, thinning hair or noticeable hair loss, and increased sensitivity to sunlight,” says Dr Agarwal.

Other signs to watch out for include recurrent mouth ulcers, chest pain or shortness of breath, puffiness around the eyes, swelling in the legs, and neurological issues such as confusion, seizures, or memory problems. Identifying these symptoms early can help ensure better outcomes through prompt medical intervention.

Also read | Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS): Causes, symptoms, and treatment of the autoimmune disorder

Treatment options for lupus:

While lupus has no cure, it can be effectively managed. “Treatment is designed based on severity and organ involvement. Alongside medical interventions, lifestyle adjustments play a crucial role in long-term wellness,” says Dr Agarwal.

Protecting oneself from the sun, managing stress levels, and maintaining regular medical follow-ups are essential steps in living well with lupus. These measures help reduce outbursts and preserve quality of life.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.