Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - Symptoms

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Kidney Complications (Lupus Nephritis)

Kidney complications are common in SLE. Inflammation of the kidneys (lupus nephritis) typically develops within 5 years after lupus symptoms begin. In its early stages, lupus nephritis can cause fluid build-up leading to swelling in the extremities (feet, legs, hands, arms) and overall weight gain. If left untreated, lupus nephritis may progress to complete kidney failure (end-stage renal disease).

Click the icon to see an image of the kidney.

Central Nervous System Complications

Nearly all patients with SLE report some symptoms relating to problems that occur in the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the spinal cord and the brain.

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Symptoms vary widely and may overlap with psychiatric or neurologic disorders. They may also be caused by of some medications used for treating SLE.

The most serious CNS disorder is inflammation of the blood vessels in the brain (CNS vasculitis), which occurs in about 10% of patients with SLE. Fever, seizures, psychosis, and even coma can occur. Other CNS side effects include:

• Irritability
• Emotional disorders (anxiety, depression)
• Mild impairment of concentration and memory
• Migraine and tension headaches
• Problems with the reflex systems, sensation, vision, hearing, and motor control

Infections

Infections are a common complication and a major cause of death in all stages of SLE. Patients are not only prone to the ordinary bacterial and viral infections, but they are also susceptible to fungal and parasitic infections, which are common in people with weakened immune systems. They also face an increased risk for urinary tract, herpes, salmonella, and yeast infections. Corticosteroid and immunosuppressants, treatments used for SLE, also increase the risk for infections, thereby compounding the problem.

Gastrointestinal Complications

Many patients with SLE suffer gastrointestinal problems, including nausea, weight loss, mild abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gastroesophageal reflux disorder (heartburn). SLE can also affect organs located in the gastrointestinal system, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and bile ducts.

Joint, Muscle, and Bone Complications

Patients with SLE often experience muscle aches and weakness. Lupus can also cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. However, unlike rheumatoid arthritis, the arthritis caused by SLE almost never leads to destruction or deformity of joints. Patients with SLE also commonly experience reductions in bone mass density (osteoporosis) and have a higher risk for fractures, whether or not they are taking corticosteroids (which can increase the risk for osteoporosis). Women who have SLE should have regular bone mineral density scans to monitor bone health.

Click the icon to see an image of osteoporosis.