Lupus is a chronic disease in which an individual’s body experiences “autoimmunity”, meaning that the immune system cannot tell the difference between its own healthy cells and foreign bacteria or viruses.

As a result, the body breaks down and attacks its own healthy tissue. This results in pain, swelling and eventual damage to different parts of the body.

Common symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, and dry eyes along with other symptoms. There are blood tests to help determine if you may have Lupus.

These initial tests can be done at Patients First, and we can help refer you to a specialist for additional testing if needed.