What is Lupus and Arthritis?
Lupus versus Arthritis. What is the difference? This is a question that comes up frequently when speaking with others about their conditions. This is clearly a vast topic and so this article will only cover some of the basics.
While there are many similarities in symptoms. They are two very different conditions.
With Lupus you can have either Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most common, Cutaneous Lupus (Limited to the skin), Drug-Induced Lupus (A lupus like disease brought on by certain prescription drugs), and Neonatal Lupus ( a rare form of lupus that affects infants of women who have lupus).
Arthritis comes in many forms as well. The most common are Osteoarthritis (affecting the bones), Rheumatoid Arthritis (affecting the joints), Juvenile Arthritis (diagnosed as a child), Spondyloarthropathies, and Psoriatic Arthritis.
Symptoms of Lupus
There are many different symptoms of lupus. Not all people experience the same symptoms but most have a few in common.
It generally takes years to get a diagnosis as there are many symptoms of Lupus that are common in other illnesses and/or diseases.
However, there are certain specific symptoms that generally are a sign of having lupus. These would include prolonged low-grade fever, joint inflammation or pain, brain fog, weakness, fatigue, ulcers in the nose and mouth and sudden hair loss. There are many other symptoms that come a long with lupus but these are the main ones to be aware of.
Symptoms vary from person to person and from flare to flare. This is one reason why it is so difficult to diagnose.
Symptoms of Arthritis
As with Lupus there are many different symptoms of Arthritis. The most common symptoms for arthritis are pain, swelling and tenderness in the fingers, hands and feet.
Many experience joint stiffness especially in the morning making it difficult to move. As the condition progresses many people have deformed joints.
Arthritis is generally easier to diagnose than lupus. With both your doctor will ask you certain questions, perform a physical exam and order some diagnostic test like imaging and labs.
What is the Doctor looking for?
So interestingly enough the process of determining whether you have Lupus or Arthritis includes many of the same tests. There are a few specific lab tests for Lupus and Arthritis which can help to diagnose the conditions. However, even if you have a negative blood test it does not necessarily mean that you do not have either Lupus or Arthritis. This is one reason why it is so difficult to make an accurate diagnosis. Frustrating as hell I know especially when you are waiting to see what is wrong and what you can do next.
For diagnosis of Lupus your doctor will see if you have 4 of the 11 specified symptom criteria in determining a diagnosis. These include:
- Skin rash from sunlight
- Butterfly rash across the cheeks and nose
- Ulcers in and around the mouth which are generally painless
- Inflammation of the lining of the heart, lungs or both
- Raised red patches on the skin
- Arthritis in at least 2 joints
- Seizures or psychosis
- Positive ANA test
- Immune disorder
- Blood disorders like low white blood cells or platelet counts
- Kidney problems.
Diagnosis arthritis includes:
- Blood Work
- Stiffness in the joints like fingers, wrists, elbows, hips, etc.
- Swelling in the joints, they may feel warm, be red or puffy
Of course, like lupus, there are other symptoms that come into play.
What's Next?
While there are no cures for either Lupus or Arthritis. There are treatment options. You will need to review these options with your medical team and find the best treatment plan for you.
Things that may be discussed by your treatment team may include walking, yoga, tai-chi, meditation, medications, acupuncture, massage, change in certain foods, an anti-inflammatory diet, rest and decreasing stress.
It is important to listen to your body, take good notes and discuss your symptoms with your medical team to see what the best options for you are. Being mindful of your condition and any changes you are experiencing may provide you with less pain and feeling better.
Be sure to take your journal to your doctor’s appointment to help determine the best treatment plan for you.
