Because lupus is a systemic disease that affects multiple systems, it can cause complications throughout your body, including your kidneys, heart, lungs, eyes, and bones.
Lupus is a complex autoimmune condition that affects multiple areas of your body. The term “lupus” often refers to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common form of this condition.
Like other autoimmune diseases, lupus develops when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. Since lupus can affect more than one area in your body, it’s common to have several related symptoms.
It’s also possible to develop multiple types of complications from this chronic condition. This article reviews the most common lupus complications, so you can talk with a doctor about further treatment and prevention to help prevent permanent damage.
Also called lupus nephritis, kidney disease may develop from long-term inflammation and damage to your kidneys. This can result in permanent loss of kidney function and then failure.
According to a
Lupus can damage blood cells due to damage to your bone marrow. This can mean lower levels of red and white blood cells as well as blood platelets. In turn, related blood disorders may develop, such as:
Additionally, lupus may increase your risk of vasculitis, a type of inflammation of the blood vessels.
Lupus can also affect your heart, leading to inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) or inflammation around its lining (pericarditis). Long-term inflammation can lead to permanent heart damage.
People with lupus are also
To help prevent further heart-related complications from lupus, a doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking. They’ll also regularly check your cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Lupus may increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. According to a
A heart attack associated with lupus may also occur from related coronary artery disease, in which your arteries become blocked from plaque buildup.
Some lupus complications may be related to medications used to treat it. Such is the case with osteoporosis, a
Osteoporosis may also increase your risk of bone fractures, with your hips particularly at risk. A
To help prevent lupus-related osteoporosis, a doctor may recommend a calcium-rich diet along with regular exercise. They may also prescribe osteoporosis medications to help prevent further bone loss.
Lupus can also cause inflammation within lung tissues, particularly the pleura, which protects the lungs from your chest wall. This inflammation, also called pleurisy, is the most common lung complication associated with lupus.
Over time, pleuritis can lead to tissue damage, which can eventually make it difficult to breathe. You may also feel chest pain when you inhale.
Treatment for pleuritis varies on the severity and may include:
- antibiotics to prevent infection
- painkillers for chest pain
- hospitalization for severe breathing problems
Lupus may also attack tissues around your eyes, leading to related disorders. About one-third of people with lupus have ocular problems.
Certain eye disorders may also develop from long-term steroid use for lupus. These include cataracts and glaucoma.
To help detect potential eye problems from lupus, experts recommend you see an eye doctor for an exam once a year.
People with lupus also have
You may consider talking with a doctor if you’re planning a pregnancy. They can help you monitor your condition while also ensuring a healthy pregnancy.
While it’s possible to have a healthy pregnancy with lupus, you and your baby will likely have better outcomes if your lupus is well-managed. Possible complications
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about lupus complications to consider:
What is the most serious complication of lupus?
The most serious complications of lupus involve major organs, including your heart, kidneys, or lungs. While treatment can help prevent disease progression, complications from lupus may be fatal if the condition is left untreated.
Does lupus get progressively worse?
Like other autoimmune diseases, lupus can get progressively worse, especially without treatment. It can eventually affect multiple organs and cause related complications.
Receiving a timely and accurate diagnosis is another factor in your outcome with lupus. Experts think that more than half of people with lupus receive an incorrect diagnosis and that it may take an average of 6 years after first experiencing symptoms to receive a lupus diagnosis.
Does lupus qualify for disability?
For many people, lupus can cause significant economic effects due to health complications that make it difficult to work. If you fall into this category, you may qualify for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration. You can learn more and apply here.
If you or a loved one has lupus, you might first be focused on controlling symptoms. As with other autoimmune diseases, though, it’s important to be aware of the possible complications so a doctor may be able to help you manage or prevent them.