There are three types of lupus: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: This type of lupus causes inflammation to the joints and mainly affects the kidneys, blood and lungs. it can affect other organs; Discold Lupus: This type of lupus is confined to the skin and is characterised either by persistent flushing of the checks or disc-like lesions that appear on the face, neck, scalp and other areas of the skin that is exposed to ultraviolet light; and Drug-induced Lupus: Certain prescribed drugs can create a lupus-like syndrome which is similar to SLE but rarely affects either the kidneys or the nervous system.

According to the Bermuda Lupus Association, which is entering its tenth year of existence, lupus is often a repetitive disease and they recommend watching for recurring symptoms.

Here are some of the common symptoms of lupus: Achy joints; Fever over 100 degrees F (38 degrees C); Prolonged or extreme fatigue; Arthritis (swollen joints); Skin rashes or hives; Anaemia; Kidney problems; Pain in the chest, shortness of breath or deep breathing; Butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose; Sun or light sensitivity; Loss of appetite and involuntary weight loss; Sore on the roof of the mouth which burns after eating spicy foods; Increasing hair loss; Coughing up blood, recurring nose bleeds or blood in the urine; and Recurring or persistent abdominal pain.

Source: The Lupus Association of Bermuda.