Lupus and arthritis are often linked because arthritis is one of the most common symptoms of lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease. Lupus causes the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues, leading to inflammation in various parts of the body, including the joints.
Arthritis in lupus typically causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, often affecting smaller joints in the hands and wrists. While lupus-related arthritis can resemble rheumatoid arthritis, it tends to be less damaging to the joints. Managing lupus with medications to control the immune system’s activity can also help alleviate arthritis symptoms.
If you have lupus and are experiencing joint pain, speak to your doctor to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the autoimmune condition and arthritis symptoms.