The Symptoms

Although there are many possible manifestations of lupus, those listed below are some of the more common. Lupus is a disease which can present many different facets, rarely do two people have exactly the same symptoms, and these can vary from just one to many.

  • Joint/muscle aches and pains

  • Extreme fatigue and weakness

  • Increased risk of miscarriage

  • Rashes from sunlight/UV light (including the classical "butterfly" rash on the cheeks and nose)

  • Flu-like symptoms and/or night sweats

  • Weight gain or loss

  • Inflammation of the tissues covering internal organs with associated chest and/or abdominal pain

  • Seizures, mental illness or other cerebral problems


  • Headaches, migraine

  • Kidney problems

  • Oral/nasal ulcers

  • Hair loss

  • Depression

  • Haematological disorders including anaemia

  • Swollen glands

  • Poor blood circulation causing the tips of fingers and toes to turn white then blue on exposure to cold (Raynauds)

The Symptoms Body Map

Although symptoms are similar in men and women, there are a number of small differences. Please select the appropriate body map below to see how lupus affects both men and women.

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