Yet a lupus diagnosis no longer means an early death.
Illustration by Tara Anand for Verywell Health
How Long Can You Live With Lupus?
Lupus was once much more deadly than it is today.
Illustration by Tara Anand for Verywell Health
The odds improve for those who take their medication as prescribed and follow instructions from their healthcare provider.
Those who experience severe lupus flare-ups may be exposed to more risk.
The risk of death also was higher among African American and Latinx people.
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Some researchers believe outcomes can be improved by greater awareness of genetics and at-risk groups.
Effects of Lupus on the Body
Lupus is a chronicautoimmune disorder.
Lupus can damage many parts of the body, including major organs.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Brain
Lupus may increase the risk of stroke but it also can lead to other changes.
Neuropsychiatric lupus is a serious complication that leads to headaches, seizures, and other neurological changes.
It also can lead to anxiety, mood disorders, and cognitive challenges like confusion.
Skin
Skin-related symptoms are the most common clinical findings of lupus that healthcare providers see.
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Joints
Lupus can cause pain and inflammation around the joints.
Lupus also can lead to muscle pain and weakness.
Kidneys
Lupusnephritisis a common complication affecting the kidneys, affecting about 50% of people with lupus.
Up to 20% of people who develop this condition will progress to potentially fatal end-stage kidney disease.
Treatment is possible, but experts stress the importance of routine screening for kidney function.
But that does not mean that it can not be fatal.
Kidney failureused to be the most common cause of lupus mortality.
The severity of your lupus factors into your life expectancy.
Managing Lupus
Managing lupus is key to living a normal lifespan.
However, it remains a chronic disease for which there is no cure.
Lupus is deadly when complications occur.
Among the most serious complications are kidney disease, heart disease, and neurological impacts.
That said, most people have an average lifespan with proper treatment.
Lifestyle practices can help to prevent flare-ups and keep you healthy.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
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2022 Jun 6;13:908831. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2022.908831.
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Hile GA, Kahlenberg JM.Immunopathogenesis of skin injury in systemic lupus erythematosus.Curr Opin Rheumatol.
2021 Mar 1;33(2):173-180. doi:10.1097/BOR.0000000000000770.
Lupus Foundation of America.Lupus and the joints, muscles, and bones.
2021 Jan 18;7:610257. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2020.610257.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How to manage symptoms.
