READ THE SIGNS

Symptoms of lupus can range from the obvious (a butterflyshaped rash) to the subtle (tiredness). Dr Micaela Bayard, a rheumatologist at Mount Sinai Hospital in the US, suggests keeping tabs on the following...

CLUE JOINT PAIN

SPOT IT

This usually presents as stiffness or trouble moving, especially in the morning, and it can last from a few minutes to a few hours, says Dr Bayard. Joints may also be swollen, warm to the touch or painful, even without swelling.

CLUE FATIGUE

SPOT IT

Some 80% of lupus patients experience low energy. If you’re thinking ‘but I’m always tired’, Dr Bayard describes it as tiredness so severe that it impacts your ability to go about your daily activities and work.

CLUE DRY EYES OR MOUTH

SPOT IT Disease-related dry eyes and mouth occur on a persistent basis (not just after you’ve stared at your computer all day). Patients often report a sensation of sand in the eyes or regular waking at night to drink water.

CLUE MOUTH ULCERS

SPOT IT

Lupus patients experience inflammation throughout the body, says Dr Bayard – including the mouth. Watch out for shallow or recurring ulcers, or sores that won’t heal.