Some people find that the appearance of the butterfly rash is a sign of an oncoming disease flare. Rashes may also occur on the face and ears, upper arms, shoulders, chest, hands and other areas exposed to the sun.īecause many people with lupus are sensitive to sunlight (called photosensitivity), skin rashes often first develop or worsen after being out in the sun. The rash can last from days to weeks and is sometimes painful or itchy.

Research conducted through a clinical trial network established by the Lupus Research Alliance explored a potential mobile application for patients to report and measure fatigue.Ībout half of people with lupus experience a characteristic red “malar” rash or color change that may appear across the cheeks and bridge of the nose in the shape of a butterfly. No matter the cause, it’s clear that fatigue can significantly impact patients’ quality of life, including lessening the ability to function at home and at work. Scientists differ on whether there is also a relationship between fatigue and the disease itself or the treatments used to manage lupus.

The severe fatigue of lupus seems to be caused by many factors, including disease activity, anxiety disorders, sleep disturbances, vitamin D deficiency and low levels of exercise. The most common symptoms of lupus are extreme fatigue, skin rashes, joint pain and unexplained fevers.Īpproximately 50%–90% of people with lupus identify fatigue as one of their primary symptoms.

Painful rash