Illnesses Associated With Lupus
Causes | Symptoms | Types | Testing | Treatment | Other Illnesses | Quality of Life
What blood disorders are associated with lupus?
Anemia is the most common blood disorder associated with lupus. About 50% of people with lupus also have anemia. In people with anemia, red blood cells don't bring enough oxygen to the other cells of the body. This can happen because there are too few red blood cells or because the red blood cells don't have enough hemoglobin. That is the substance that gives blood its color and carries oxygen. When the cells don't get enough oxygen, the body can feel tired, a common symptom of anemia and of lupus.
Thrombocytopenia is a low blood platelet count. That can cause bruising and bleeding. Bleeding can take the form of nosebleeds, blood in the stool, and tiny reddish or purplish spots on the skin or mucous membranes. While relatively common, bleeding is rarely serious, but it is important enough to notify a doctor.
Lupus anticoagulant is not actually an anticoagulant (blood thinner) but a substance in the blood that can indicate the presence of blood clots. These blood clots, known as thromboses, can form within a blood vessel in the arms, legs, brain, and other areas. The clots can break away and travel to other parts of the body.
Lymphocytopenia (also known as lymphopenia) and granulocytopenia refer to shortages of two types of white blood cells, lymphocytes and granulocytes. A reduced number of white blood cells can compromise the body's ability to fight off infection.
What other serious conditions may be associated with lupus?
Lupus can lead to serious medical conditions. Seeing a doctor and getting treatment immediately can prevent or reduce damage to body organs.
Inflammation of the kidneys can impair their ability to rid the body of waste products and other toxic substances. Warning signs of serious kidney disease include swelling around the hands, ankle, and eyes, and feeling more tired than ever for no apparent reason.
Problems with memory, attention, and other thought processes may result from lupus affecting the central nervous system.
Depression, lowered self esteem, decreased confidence, sadness, and related feelings may result from changes to the body. These changes could be caused by lupus or the drugs used to treat lupus. Having the treatment adjusted could eliminate or reduce some of these effects
Inflammation can have serious effects on the heart and lungs. Lupus can cause inflammation of the heart muscle, of the thin sac surrounding the heart, and of the lining of the lung. Symptoms include chest pain and shortness of breath.
Written 12/07
