Lupus is fatigue. Lupus is pain. Lupus is a host of symptoms. But, when you dive deeper, what is lupus?

Prefer to listen? Click here to hear information from the NIH

Lupus is… Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

• Though there are other types, SLE is typically referred to as simply: lupus

Lupus is… an autoimmune disease

• A properly functioning immune system identifies foreign substances and creates antibodies to fight off viruses, bacteria, and germs (like the flu).
• With lupus, the immune system can’t distinguish between foreign invaders and the body’s healthy tissues — so the immune system creates autoantibodies. These autoantibodies attack the body’s healthy cells and tissues, breaking them down and causing inflammation

Lupus is… a chronic condition

• The symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks.
• The condition is not preventable with vaccines or curable with medications or treatments

Lupus is… cyclical

• During flares, symptoms are more severe
• During remission, symptoms improve and may seem to disappear

Lupus is… non-communicable

• It is not contagious; you can’t “catch” lupus from someone