Pain doesn't affect a lot of young people with lupus, but for some, it can be a problem, especially in the early days of your lupus.

It is often difficult to explain pain to other people, especially when you are tired and feel unwell, so it may be better if you talk to your family and care team when you are not in the middle of a painful episode.

Sometimes you may not know exactly where the pain is, or how to describe it, as it may feel like a cloud all around you. It may be really difficult to know what is causing the pain and not all pain can be explained by doctors. Keep notes on when you experience pain to see if there is a pattern - sometimes you will be able to tie it to activities you did yesterday which could have caused it. You may have just done too much or sat in the same position for too long: you might be in a really noisy environment which causes a headache and makes you feel extra tired.

Your doctor and care team will really want to help if you feel pain. They may give you pain relief medication which can help. However the whole team of people caring for you can help by teaching you ways to help cope with any pain.

Sometimes warmth or cold may help: you can use a warm hot water bottle (or fill it with icy water if you want it cold) or use special wheat bags which can either be warmed up in the microwave or put in a plastic bag in the freezer. Make sure that the bottle or bag has a cover on it, or wrap it in a towel or piece of cloth. Never put it directly next to your skin as the temperature can damage the skin: only use it for 10-15 minutes at a time and repeat if necessary after a 15 minute break.