What is lupus? What's the difference between lupus and fibromyalgia?

Hi @mfobrien36. We have some information about lupus available at the link below. No two cases of lupus are alike, so we're not able to diagnose or provide specific treatment recommendations online, but hopefully there will be some helpful information for you, including tests and treatments you should discuss with your doctor. Let us know if you have any other questions!

Hello all, I was diagnosed with fibro 2.5 years ago. I have some concerns that I may have Lupus too but I know this is a hard diagnosis. Any fibro folks with the same concern or an eventual Lupus diagnosis?

Hello @walkers56,

Welcome to Connect; I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis, and can imagine how stressful it must be. We're glad you've joined us with your questions.

Here are a few conversations you may find useful:

Fibromyalgia pain, http://mayocl.in/2rY1D4d
Chronic Pain and Fibromyalgia – alternatives to medications? http://mayocl.in/2tj9CwL
Have a few autoimmune disorders - now have consistent low grade fever http://mayocl.in/2szXyT9

You may click on any of the above links and you will be directed to conversations centered around the complications you listed. In each discussion you will meet many great members talking about what you are experiencing.

I'd also like to tag @jaynehrnyc @blindeyepug @whyus @jewel8888 @virtuous69 @sharlynn62 to bring them into this discussion with their thoughts.

@walkers56, may I ask why lupus may be a cause for concern for you? Are you experiencing any symptoms related to lupus?

Lupus is the great pretender it can show like a lot of things you are going to need a good rheumatologist and other doctors it’s going to take a team to help you with it , I don’t have it but I know a lot of people that do I hope that you find the right doctors for you keep looking until you do just don’t give up there is help

Thank you for your inspiring words

Lupus is an overlap disease, and can include fibromyalgia. I have Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, which includes many of the same symptoms. Generally, there are basic drugs to treat, like plaquenil, pain management, and then you get to specific symptoms. For the fibro piece, I find that a daily walk, PT stretches for problem areas as well as balance and general strengthening as well as a non-processed diet - low sugar, good fats, moderate or avoid potato, tomato, dairy and whole wheat work fairly well. With strength, you can alleviate some of the fatigue, but also hydration and electrolytes matter. For pain relief, ice/heat, lidocaine patches, KT tape (directions on you tube), splints, epsom salt bath etc help. I have had this 24 years or so and am pretty active. I use my primary care, rheumatologist, gastroenterologist, orthopedic and a manual Physical Therapist. Rheumies have limited expertise.