What lupus can involve
Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE) is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. It can involve the joints, skin, kidneys, heart and other organs, and it tends to come and go in flares. Joint pain, deep fatigue, rashes, sensitivity to sunlight, mouth ulcers, hair loss and brain fog are among the symptoms people describe.
Between flares you can look perfectly well, which is part of why lupus is so often misjudged. Keeping track of what a flare looked like, how long it lasted and what came before it helps you and your rheumatology team see the whole picture, not just the day of the appointment.