Lupus can also affect the lungs, eyes, digestive system, blood vessels, and blood.

A normal immune system makes antibodies against viruses, bacteria, and other invaders. In a person with lupus, the immune system makes autoantibodies. These are antibodies that attack the person's healthy cells. Autoantibodies cause inflammation and can harm organs and tissues.

Discoid lupus erythematosus is a form of lupus that affects only the skin. It causes a raised rash on the face and scalp. The rash areas may become thick and scarred. The rash may last only days, or remain for years. Certain medicines may cause symptoms similar to SLE. But the symptoms usually go away when you stop taking the medicine. Neonatal lupus is a rare form of lupus. It affects newborn infants whose mothers may have SLE or another immune system disorder.

Lupus is much more common among women than among men. African-American women are 3 times more likely to have lupus than are Caucasian women. Lupus is also more common among women who are Asians, Hispanics, or of certain American Indian background.

Researchers say a combination of factors may cause lupus. The cause may also be different from person to person. No specific gene has been found that causes lupus. But several genes may make it more likely that a person will develop it. SLE is most common in women who are in their childbearing years. This is when they have the highest levels of estrogen in their body. Other factors that are being explored include sunlight, stress, medicines, and viruses.

All of these are common symptoms of systemic lupus, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. The rash usually appears in areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun. The rash spreads across the nose and cheeks.

Kidney inflammation (nephritis) can interfere with how the kidneys work. Other complications include an inflammation of the chest cavity (pleuritis), pneumonia, stroke, memory problems, blood vessel inflammation, and an inflammation of the heart (myocarditis).

Lupus is difficult to diagnose. An accurate health history is important, because it can point out symptoms. A skin biopsy, urine test, and blood antibody tests can help in the diagnosis.

Lupus has no cure. But medicines can help most people with the disease can lead active, healthy lives. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) are often used to help control pain, swelling, and fever. Other types of medicine may also be used.

Typical warning signs of a flare include fatigue, pain, rash, fever, headache, or dizziness that gets worse. By getting regular checkups, you can discuss any changes in symptoms with your healthcare provider. He or she may need to adjust your treatment. Your provider can also answer questions you may have about using sunscreens, reducing stress, and developing a program of exercise and rest.