Sign 4. Fever: An Unexplained Rise in Temperature
A low-grade fever is often one of the first symptoms of lupus. While it’s easy to dismiss a mild fever as a sign of a cold or the flu, a persistent, unexplained fever may indicate the onset of lupus. Monitoring your temperature and paying attention to any patterns can help you and your healthcare provider identify potential triggers and address them accordingly.
A fever in lupus patients is typically a result of the body’s immune response to inflammation. The elevated temperature can be a sign that the immune system is working overtime to combat the inflammation caused by the disease. In some cases, fever may also be a side effect of medications used to treat lupus or a symptom of an underlying infection.
When experiencing a fever, it’s essential to stay well-hydrated and get plenty of rest to help your body recover. Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage the fever and provide relief from discomfort. However, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider before taking any new medications, as they may interact with your existing lupus treatment plan.(4)
