Lupus is a long-term autoimmune disease that arises when the body’s immune system overreacts and attacks healthy cells and organs. The most common type of lupus is SLE (or systemic lupus erythematosus). One of the main risk factors that have been linked to lupus is race and gender. In fact, studies show that lupus affects 1 in 537 young African American women. Other important risk factors include exposure to certain substances such as industrial chemicals, ionizing radiation and medications, and exposure to infection, including some viruses and bacteria.

Read on for six common signs of lupus:

1. Extreme fatigue
Extreme fatigue is a common lupus sign. You may have exhaustion symptoms that affect the entire body. Feeling tired, weak or unwell all the time. You may feel like you can’t keep up with your usual activities. You may feel extremely tired after a strenuous activity such as playing a sport or yard work. The fatigue can occur day after day and may continue even after you stop exercising.

2. Swelling around the eyes
Swelling can occur in both the upper and lower lids of your eyes. It can also occur in the bridge of your nose and under your eyes, giving you a puffy appearance. Additionally, swelling around the eyes can cause vision problems and discomfort.

3. Low fever
Low fever is a sign of lupus, although it can also be a symptom of other illnesses. It can be a slight fever lasting for more than five days. If you have lupus, a slight fever may occur after exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light. If your fever has some irregular symptoms, it may signify that you’re developing lupus.

4. Chest pain when deep breathing
Chest pain, similar to the symptoms of a heart attack, is another one of the most common lupus signs. Normally chest pain worsens when you breathe deeply. Chest pain may occur when doing strenuous activity.

5. Pain or swelling of joints
One of the most common signs of lupus is joint pain or swelling of joints. Joint pain, ranging from mild to severe, typically affects your hands and knuckles. Additionally, joint pain or swelling is especially experienced in the back, shoulders and hips. It can also affect your wrists, knees and elbows.

6. Headaches
Headaches with lupus often occur more than once a week, especially if preceded by pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Headaches are connected to increased pressure inside the skull or changes in the position of the cerebrospinal fluid around the brain and spinal cord. These pains can affect your forehead, temples or back of your head. It is a common symptom in children and adults who have lupus but can be a symptom of other conditions.

In conclusion, lupus is a severe health condition you need to take seriously. you should see a doctor immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms. Lupus disease treatment is essential, and if left untreated, it can be fatal.