Could I have lupus

[Paterson05]

I have been struggling for a while. Severe memory cognitive problems neck pain and fatigue that seems to hit and disappear. I have been feeling as if I'm shaking. Feeling dizzy it's horrible this has been happening on and off one day randomly a rash appeared across my face. Separately rashes have appeared on my knees sides of my fingers and hands. I hadn't even heard of lupus. Is it possible I have it? Or does anyone know what the rash could be?

[dgleds]

Hard to know...The criteria or list is for like 11 things to show up, that point to Lupus..The more things you have on the list, the more likely. The butterfly rash is one of them, and my Rhumetologist said other random rashes too..Then ANA antibodies in your blood with a funny pattern like speckled or homogenous and a high count like 1:320, and inflammation present when tested... and maybe joint pain, and terrible fatigue that's hard to describe...not just tired, its different..like ur essence is missing..those are just some of the list..Best to go to Doctor and ask...get tested to be sure. Even mild form of Lupus can be awful, but there is help....(there is skin kind of lupus too)

[Tinkerjack1912]

Hi, I would ask your doctor to test you for lupus, it’s a simple blood test. There are a minority who don’t have the ANA antibodies and still get diagnosed so sadly lupus isn’t exactly straight forward. I hope you get your answers soon, let us know how you get on.

[KayHimm]

You really should see your GP. Having a rash on your face is troubling to anyone. Your GP might refer you to a dermatologist or a rheumatologist depending on all of your symptoms. I can understand your concern and think your doctor will too.

Good luck and keep us posted.

K

[andreea_valerie]

Hi. Unfortunately, lupus is the kind of disease that can take up to a few months, even years to diagnose. However, there are blood tests that are relevant when it comes to the diagnosis. Talk to your doctor, the anti-dsDNA antibodies test is usually postive for 70-80% of people with lupus. The C3 and C4 complement proteins also have abnormal levels most of times (especially before staring an actual treatment). Take care and best of luck! Let us know when you get your answers.

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi Paterson05 ,

Have you discussed your various symptoms with your GP? Have they suggested doing any blood tests/investigations to identify the cause.

We can't say whether you have lupus or not because the symptoms you describe are not exclusive to one condition. It should probably be considered as part of any diagnostic investigations however.

If you would like more information and advice about getting a diagnosis of lupus, please take a look at our article here - lupusuk.org.uk/getting-diag...