Butterfly rash (lupus)

Lupus is caused by your immune system mistakenly attacking healthy parts of your body, including your skin, kidneys, joints, blood, heart, lungs and brain. The symptoms of lupus are confusingly similar to those of other conditions. The most important sign is the appearance of a rash on both cheeks, linked across the bridge of your nose, that looks like butterfly wings.

Lupus is a long-term condition with no cure, but some medications can reduce your symptoms, making your life easier.

People come down with different symptoms of lupus. If you have lupus, you may have:

• Rash that looks like butterfly wings. This can look like dry, scaly skin across your cheeks, and the bridge of your nose. This is called a malar rash.
• Constant tiredness.
• Joint pains and swelling.
• Chest pain and difficulty breathing.

Lupus is caused by a combination of your genes (you are likely to have someone in the family who also has lupus), hormones and environment.

You are at higher risk of lupus if:

• You are female.
• You have a family member that has lupus.
• You are constantly exposed to the sun.
• You have an infection.
• You are using certain medications for your blood pressure or seizures.

You should see your doctor immediately if:

• You have a rash that does not disappear after a month, with fever and constant fatigue.
• You have difficulty breathing at any time.

Although there is no direct way to prevent lupus, you can:

• Limit the time you spend directly under the sun.
• Practice different things that help you manage stress.
• Avoid your triggers of the disease.

Self-care tips:

• Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, but use these in moderation (check instructions that come with the medication).
• Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and drink lots of water.
• Keep physically fit by exercising regularly.
• Wear protective clothes when you are out in the sun and use sunscreen regularly.
• Stop smoking. Your healthcare provider can help you quit.

Treatment options:

• Your healthcare provider may give you stronger pain medications and anti-inflammatory medications. These drugs stop your immune system from attacking your healthy tissue and organs.
• You may need medications that treat other conditions or complications like heart disease.
• Your healthcare provider will help you identify your condition's triggers and help you plan to avoid them.

Having lupus can be difficult, but learning all you can about the condition can help you live a more enjoyable life. Ask questions from your healthcare provider and read up on living with lupus.

You should talk to family members and connect with people living with lupus too. You are not alone, getting into a supportive community will be very helpful to you.