Do you think I may have lupus?

Question

I went researching about lupus, just for "fun", and I noticed that I had some symptoms. This is the symptom list on a website about lupus, and a description of what I feel in front:

Red rash or color change on the face, often in the shape of a butterfly across the nose and cheeks: This is what worries me the most. I go to the beach everyday, and when I come home I often get what seems to be blushing above my eyes, like when a guy gets drunk.

Painful or swollen joints: I have had joint pain for some while, but only on one knee. It's a mild pain that comes at random times, regardless of what activity i'm doing.

Unexplained fever: No fever at all

Chest pain with deep breathing: No

Swollen glands: No

Extreme fatigue (feeling tired all the time): I can't say I feel tired all the time. It's more like laziness, if you know what I mean.

Unusual hair loss (mainly on the scalp): No

Pale or purple fingers or toes from cold or stress: No

Sensitivity to the sun: As I said in the first place I have clear skin and when i'm at the beach I tend to get burned.

Low blood count: Don't know, but I had one 4 years ago and everything was fine.

Depression, trouble thinking, and/or memory problems: Also worries me because I have hypochondria, as for memory issues I seem to forget very recent thoughts like 10 or 20 seconds ago.

I also have some sinus inflammation, and my face gets hot at night when i'm home.

Answer 1

I don't think so. You might have fair skin and might burn easily, or get red from the sun. You're memory problem is probably way different than lupus. So I doubt you have it, but if you are really concerned then I guess you should consult a doctor.

Answer 2

I do have Lupus and it is a very serious condition. It is very difficult to diagnoses and many people wait years for a diagnoses. If everyone were diagnosed by looking in a text book it would be great, but instead we go through years of tests and criticism from many specialists, some of whom tell us it is all in our heads. There is no one test to diagnose Lupus and all lupus patients present differently and suffer differently as well respond differently to treatment. Some live long productive lives others are not so lucky. Unless you truly believe you have a condition, be careful with what you read for fun and always consult a doctor. It is also good to go armed with proof as you have done - always stay a step ahead.