Healthy Living

The Differences Between Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis

However, with lupus, doctors must pay attention to 11 different symptoms

Diagnosing lupus is more difficult than RA. In some cases, it could even take years to diagnose lupus. At first, the doctor must order lab and imaging tests, but they also must pay attention to 11 specific symptoms, including:

  • The butterfly rash
  • Red patches on the skin
  • Rashes from sunlight sensitivity
  • Painless mouth ulcers
  • Pain and swelling in at least two joints
  • Inflamed heart linings
  • Psychiatric symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions
  • Kidney problems
  • Blood disorders
  • Immune disorders
  • Positive tests of antinuclear antibodies