Lupus affects everyone differently. There are a number of signs that could indicate you have lupus, and it’s important to see your doctor if you have several of them at the same time. A sign is the evidence your doctor finds during an exam.

Common lupus signs include:

• Sores in your mouth or nose

• Hair loss visible to others

• Rash lasting for days to weeks in areas that have been exposed to the sun

• Swollen or stiff joints, which may be worse in the morning

• Chest pain with every deep breath, lasting more than 24 hours

• Pale fingers that may become numb and tingle when exposed to cold or stress (Raynaud’s phenomenon)

• Protein in your urine

• Low blood counts

• Fever

• Weight loss

If You Believe You Could Have Lupus

A primary care doctor, dermatologist or other doctor can help determine whether you should be referred to a rheumatologist to be evaluated for lupus.