By the Frisco Medical Center team. Reviewed by Luis C. Palacios, MD, board-certified family physician.
A disease that is hard to see
Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. Symptoms come and go, so patients often feel misunderstood.
Common symptoms
Fatigue, joint pain and swelling, a rash across the cheeks, fevers, sensitivity to sunlight, hair loss and mouth sores.
Getting a diagnosis
There is no single test for lupus. Your doctor combines your history, exam and blood work, and refers you to a rheumatologist. Keeping a symptom diary helps a lot.
This information is educational and does not replace a medical visit. In an emergency, call 911.