I have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and keep getting joint pain and extreme fatigue. Are these common symptoms?
The question, asked by a man aged 30 to 44
I’ve been having intense fatigue, joint pain and new skin rashes, and it’s becoming difficult to manage day to day. I’m worried this could be a flare or something more serious. How urgently should I speak to my doctor, and what should I watch for?
Fatigue and joint pains are the two major symptoms of lupus. In case it occurs alongside skin rashes, then it should be treated immediately. Here, the immune system affects various organs of the body, apart from skin and blood cells. This is caused by
UV ray exposure
Stress, lack of sleep, infections, and hormonal changes.
Medication usage or discontinuation
In case you have any discomfort like chest pain, breathlessness, swelling in your legs, foamy urine, high blood pressure, or headache. You need to visit a rheumatologist immediately. It could also be due to hypothyroidism, anemia, vitamin D deficiency, or lack of sleep. But these conditions are treatable.
Suggested Tests
- Anti-dsDNA antibodies,
- Complement levels C3 and C4
- CBC, to check for low blood counts linked with lupus activity
- ESR and CRP
- Urine routine and urine protein to creatinine ratio
- Kidney function tests and blood pressure
- Liver function tests
- TSH, ferritin and vitamin D
- Skin biopsy
How Clinic Living Plus Can Help
Now at CLP, the treatment is alongside your rheumatologist, not against it. Since your rheumatologist can assist in controlling your lupus, we try to plan our schedule based on the fact that there are not many flares.
We test for thyroid, vitamin D, B12, and sleep.
The nutritionists create a special diet plan for you which will be good for your heart and kidneys.
Our gut health experts work on rebuilding the gut microbiome.
Physiotherapy to help with gentle joint movements
It can be physically and mentally exhausting to deal with lupus, so our mental wellness comes in to support and help you to cope with stress.
Proper therapy options such as IV nutrition for energy and recovery will be offered only after getting the consent of your doctor.
Lifestyle & Nutrition Tips
- If you have joint pain, visit a physiotherapist and try some movements to prevent stiffness.
- UV rays can cause lupus. Apply broad spectrum sunscreen and stay away from the sunlight.
- Do not engage in any exercise that is strenuous when you lack energy.
- Consult a nutritionist and eat an inflammation-free healthy diet.
What to Do Next
Was this answer helpful?