In short
Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue — most often the skin, joints and kidneys. It comes and goes in flares. There is no cure yet, but with regular treatment and sun protection most people with lupus lead full, active lives.
On this page
What is lupus?
In lupus, the immune system turns on the body's own tissues. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, blood, heart, lungs and brain, so no two people have quite the same illness.
It usually alternates between flares and calmer spells. About 9 in 10 people diagnosed are women, but men can get it too.
What are the symptoms of lupus?
- Fatigue Ongoing, often severe tiredness.
- Butterfly rash Redness across the cheeks and nose, worse in the sun.
- Joint pain Swelling and stiffness in the hands, wrists and knees.
- Sun sensitivity Sunlight can trigger a rash or a flare.
- Mouth ulcers and hair thinning Common, and easy to overlook.
- Raynaud's Fingers and toes turn white or blue in the cold.
- Kidney, chest or nerve problems Swelling, chest pain on breathing, headaches or memory trouble.
How is lupus diagnosed?
No single test diagnoses lupus. Your rheumatologist combines:
- History and examination Including a check for the typical rash.
- Blood tests GlossaryANA (Antinuclear Antibody)A blood test for antibodies against the body's own cells. Positive in most people with lupus, but also in many people without it — a first step, not a diagnosis.All terms A–Z first, then more specific antibodies and GlossaryComplement (C3, C4)Blood proteins that help fight infection. Levels often fall when lupus is active.All terms A–Z.
- Urine tests Protein or blood in the urine can mean the kidneys are involved.
- Kidney biopsy Sometimes, to see how much the kidneys are affected.
How is lupus treated?
- Hydroxychloroquine The backbone of treatment — fewer flares and possible organ protection. Keep taking it when you feel well.
- Steroids and immune-calming medicines To control flares and organ involvement.
- Newer targeted medicines For lupus that needs more than standard treatment.
- Sun protection SPF 30+, covering up and avoiding peak sun are part of treatment.
Living well with lupus
Spot a flare early
Rising tiredness, joint pain, a new rash, fever or hair loss can signal a flare. Contact your rheumatologist early rather than waiting.
Everyday habits that help
- Keep regular sleep and build rest breaks into your day.
- Gentle exercise — walking, swimming, yoga — eases stiffness and lifts mood.
- Keep a symptom diary and bring it to appointments.
- Stay up to date with vaccines and blood pressure, cholesterol and bone checks.
- Tell family that fatigue is a real symptom and rest is sometimes a medical need.
At a glance
Read the text of this sheet
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect many organs and systems, with periods of flare and remission. Signs shown include the malar or butterfly rash, discoid lesions (scaly, well-defined patches), rash after sun exposure, joint inflammation, kidney involvement (lupus nephritis) and neurological symptoms such as headaches and seizures. Organs affected: skin, joints, kidneys, nervous system, blood (anaemia, low white cells, low platelets), and heart and lungs (pericarditis, pleuritis).
Questions patients ask
Is lupus contagious?
No. Lupus is an autoimmune condition, not an infection, and cannot be passed on.
Will my children get lupus?
Probably not. Genes play a part, but only around 1 in 20 children of a parent with lupus develop it, and there is no test to predict who will.
Can I have a healthy pregnancy with lupus?
Yes, most people can, with planning. Aim for lupus to be well controlled for about six months before trying to conceive. Pregnancy is treated as high-risk, so your rheumatologist and obstetrician share your care; hydroxychloroquine is usually continued.
What triggers a lupus flare?
Common triggers are sun exposure, infections, physical or emotional stress, some medicines and hormonal changes. A symptom diary helps you spot yours.
Do I need a special diet for lupus?
There is no lupus diet — a balanced diet is best. Some supplements that stimulate the immune system, such as echinacea or alfalfa, may worsen symptoms, so ask before taking any.
Words worth knowing
Full glossary- ANA (Antinuclear Antibody)
- A blood test for antibodies against the body's own cells. Positive in most people with lupus, but also in many people without it — a first step, not a diagnosis.
- Anti-dsDNA / Anti-Smith Antibodies
- Blood markers that are much more specific to lupus and help confirm the diagnosis.
- Complement (C3, C4)
- Blood proteins that help fight infection. Levels often fall when lupus is active.
- ESR / CRP
- Blood tests that measure inflammation in the body. Useful for tracking disease activity, but they do not point to any one condition.
- Lupus nephritis
- Kidney inflammation caused by lupus, watched closely with regular urine and blood tests.
This page is intended for general patient education and does not replace personalized medical advice. Please consult your rheumatologist about your specific symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment plan. Last updated 3 October 2026.