Symptom 12: Gastrointestinal Problems – The Unseen Distress
Gastrointestinal (GI) problems are common in lupus, though they are often overlooked or attributed to medication side effects. These can include symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits.
GI symptoms in lupus can be caused by various factors, including side effects of medications, stress, and lupus activity itself. Lupus can also increase the risk of certain GI conditions, such as autoimmune hepatitis, pancreatitis, and peritonitis.
Management of GI symptoms in lupus often involves a combination of dietary modifications, stress management, and medications to manage specific symptoms. It’s essential to communicate these symptoms to healthcare providers, as they can guide appropriate treatment strategies and rule out other causes.
Once again, GI symptoms highlight the broad impact of lupus, reinforcing the need for comprehensive care that addresses the myriad manifestations of this complex disease. (12)
