What Are the Signs of Lupus?
10. Heart Problems
While lupus has no significant effect on life expectancy, heart disease is the leading cause of death in lupus patients, and most will experience some type of problem with the heart during the course of the disease. The outer lining of the heart, the pericardium, can become inflamed and cause pain and shortness of breath. The endocardium, the lining of the inside of the heart, also can be affected, making heart valves thicken or develop growths. The heart muscle itself, the myocardium, can suffer as well, causing rapid heartbeat and pain.
Other cardiovascular conditions caused or worsened by lupus include anemia, thrombosis, atherosclerosis, vasculitis, and angina. Anyone experiencing these signs may want to schedule an appointment with a health care provider. Finding a course of treatment can help improve quality of life and help patients deal with living with lupus.
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