Fibromyalgia and Lupus
Symptoms of lupus and fibromyalgia
The common similarity between lupus and fibromyalgia is pain. In both diseases, pain can be exacerbated during flares of the condition. However, lupus symptoms show more visible distinctions. While both disorders can disrupt a normal quality of life, lupus can pose more life-threatening complications.
Lupus symptoms
Common lupus symptoms include:
- joint pain
- swelling
- fatigue
- butterfly-shaped rash on your face
- skin lesions
- body rashes
- chest pain
- headaches
- shortness of breath
In more severe cases of lupus, inflammation can affect your major organs. Some complications of lupus include:
- kidney damage or failure
- seizures
- memory loss
- anemia
- blood clotting
- pneumonia
- heart attack
Lupus can affect anyone at any age. This condition is more common in women. Flares, or lupus episodes, can be triggered by sunlight, infections, and certain medications.
Fibromyalgia symptoms
Fibromyalgia alone is not a life-threatening disorder. However, it can cause a number of uncomfortable and painful symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- joint pain
- chest pain
- long-lasting dull aches
- fatigue
- anxiety
- sleep disorder
Fibromyalgia is often associated with cognitive difficulties, sometimes causing a form of mental fog. This can affect your ability to concentrate and focus on tasks. It can also trigger memory loss.
While there is no direct genetic transmission of fibromyalgia, the condition can occur in clusters in families, and it can affect anyone of any age. It can be triggered by a traumatic injury or stress. It can also present as a symptom of other chronic conditions.
People with fibromyalgia are not more likely to get lupus; however, people with lupus are susceptible to developing fibromyalgia pain.
