Sufferers of lupus that have symptoms of arthritis may need to consult a local doctor to talk about potential lupus arthritis treatment options. Systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly called Lupus, is a disease that affects the natural immune system of the body, frequently involving the joints. Lupus rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system begins attacking the cartilage that surrounds these joints, leading to pronounced deterioration. The decreased amount of cartilage means that the joint is more susceptible to problems. This condition is quite common among patients who have Lupus, with some estimates stating that ninety percent of all Lupus sufferers have problems with muscle and joint pain. Arthritis from Lupus will usually affect joints that are away from the center of the body, such as the wrists and ankles.

Symptoms of Lupus can vary widely from patient to patient. For some patients, skin problems like nephritis or butterfly rashes will be present. Another common symptom of Lupus is the loss of a patient’s hair. Lupus arthritis symptoms will be the same as other forms of rheumatoid arthritis. The affected joint will be swollen and can cause discomfort or pain. The swelling and pain are often accompanied by a feeling of warmth or a tenderness around the region. The swelling can be further complicated by additional fluid that can collect in the affected joint. In addition, the range of motion of the joint will also be decreased, with patients being unable to make regular movements. The effects of lupus rheumatoid arthritis are usually most severe in the morning when the patient first wakes up. One of the differences between arthritis as a symptom of Lupus and typical osteoarthritis is that Lupus will generally not cause the physical deformities that are associated with the condition. Another common difference is that patients with Lupus will often experience the Lupus arthritis symptoms on both sides of the body. Typical arthritis will usually affect one side more severely than the other.

Treating the condition of Lupus arthritis can be tricky. Any patient with Lupus is likely to have positive test results for arthritis due to the nature of the disease. A local physician will need to do extensive tests and x-rays to determine if the arthritis will need to be treated. As with many other conditions, prevention is a key factor in effectively managing Lupus arthritis. In general, any patient with Lupus should begin a regular exercise regimen to prevent arthritis from becoming a chronic problem. Many of the exercises can be done without additional help, such as swimming or water aerobics. In cases where the symptoms are severe or painful, a physical therapist may be needed to guide the specific exercises that can help. In addition to exercise, some patients may find that medical treatment solutions are also beneficial. Frequently, a combination of anti-inflammatory medications, anti-malarials, and corticosteroids are used to combat the problem. However, the patient will need to have frequent visits to the doctor to maintain the optimal dosage levels. Effective Lupus arthritis treatment will help a patient to control the discomfort and other problems associated with arthritis.