what is lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and pain in any part of the body. It occurs when the bodys immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. Lupus can affect many different body systems, including the skin, joints, blood, and organs like the kidneys, lungs, and heart. The symptoms of lupus vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe, and may come and go over time. Some common symptoms include fatigue, fever, joint pain, stiffness and swelling, a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, skin lesions that appear or worsen with sun exposure, and fingers and toes that turn white or blue when exposed to cold or during stressful periods. Lupus can be tricky to diagnose because it can affect so many parts of the body and cause lots of different symptoms. The cause of lupus is unknown, but certain factors such as genetics, hormones, and environmental triggers may play a role. Treatment for lupus typically involves medications to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.