The uncomfortable truth; lupus is more common in females than males. Nine out of ten adults with the condition are female. Black females are three times more likely to develop lupus than white females. Clearly, Black women are in no position to ignore the early signs of lupus. Especially because the signs and symptoms of lupus can sometimes mimic other conditions, which makes it difficult to diagnose. We have to be assertive when it comes to even the smallest signs and symptoms. Our health and wellbeing is a priority.
Lupus is a chronic disease that occurs when your body’s immune system attacks your tissues and organs (autoimmune disease). With autoimmune diseases, the body’s immune system cannot tell the difference between bacteria, viruses, and any other germs, as well as the body’s healthy cells, organs and tissues. In shorter terms, your immune system damages your body instead of protecting it.
Black females are more likely to develop more severe cases of lupus, and at a younger age. Severe cases mean severe symptoms. These symptoms can come and go, known as “lupus flare up”. The most distinctive sign of lupus is a facial rash that resembles the wings of a butterfly, and it looks like it’s unfolding across both cheeks.
Other early signs and symptoms of lupus:
- Fatigue
- Unexplained fever
- Joint pain/stiffness
- Water retention(parts of the body swell, due to a build-up of trapped fluid)
- Skin sensitivity, lesions/rashes
- Sun sensitivity
- Kidney problems
- Hair loss
- Anemia
- Sharp pain in the chest
- Mouth ulcers/dryness
- Weight loss
Lupus has many effects on the body, this can lead to major complications that may develop over time, physically, and even impair a person’s mental and emotional health.
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These complications are:
Pregnancy complications, which include an increased risk of miscarriage, risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and preterm birth (a birth that takes place too early, before the 37th week of pregnancy.)
Kidney damage, and kidney failure is one of the leading causes of death among people with lupus.
Central nervous system and brain damage may result in behavior changes, headaches and dizziness, vision problems, strokes and seizures. Many people with lupus experience memory loss/problems.
Inflammation of the chest cavity lining leads to painful breathing. Pneumonia and bleeding into the lungs may also occur.
Inflammation of your arteries, heart membrane and heart muscle can be triggered negatively by lupus. The risk of heart attacks increases greatly, as well as cardiovascular disease.
Blood problems, including an increased risk of bleeding and blood clotting, a reduced number of healthy red blood cells (anemia) and inflammation of the blood vessels.
Bone fractures/tiny breaks and bone tissue death occur when the blood supply to a bone declines.
Clinical depression, meaning being in a continuous depressed mood or loss of interest in daily activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.
Raynaud’s syndrome is also common in people with lupus. This is a condition where some areas of the body feel numb and cool in certain circumstances.
A weakened immune system leads to one being more vulnerable to infection, this happens often.
Skin scarring from long-standing patches. Dark spots can also occur.
Photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight), as sunlight can trigger more intense flare-ups
Jumping into diagnosis and treatment options, keep in mind the importance of having a culturally sensitive healthcare provider. One that will listen to understand your concerns, communicate effectively, is experienced in caring for Black women, and will treat you accordingly.
Having a culturally sensitive doctor will make all the difference in your diagnosis and treatment, which can be difficult because signs and symptoms of lupus may change over time, mimic other conditions, and vary from person to person.
What diagnosis looks like:
