The symptoms of lupus will depend to some extent on the type of lupus.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

SLE accounts for 70 percent of lupus cases. It affects multiple organs and systems throughout the body. For this reason, SLE tends to be a more severe form of lupus. The symptoms can range from mild to severe.

SLE can cause inflammation in the:

• skin
• joints
• lungs
• kidneys
• blood
• heart

This inflammation may happen in one of these areas or affect multiple areas at one time.

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

In DLE, symptoms affect only the skin. DLE appears as circular lesions, typically on the scalp and face, although they can appear on other parts of the body, such as inside the ears.

The lesions tend to be red and may become thick and scaly. In some cases, the lesions lead to scarring and skin discoloration. If lesions scar on the scalp, hair may not regrow in that area.

DLE does not affect the internal organs, but around 10 percent of people with DLE go on to develop SLE, according to the Lupus Foundation of America. However, it is possible that these people already had SLE and their skin symptoms led to a DLE diagnosis first.

Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus refers to skin lesions that appear on parts of the body that have exposure to the sun. These lesions do not cause scarring but may cause skin discoloration.

Drug-induced Lupus

Drug-induced lupus (DIL) results from the long-term use of certain medications. The symptoms tend to be similar to those in SLE but are often less severe.

Many medications have been identified as potential causes of DIL, including

• hydralazine, a hypertension medication
• procainamide, a heart arrhythmia medication
• isoniazid, an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis
• minocycline, an antibiotic used to treat some skin conditions

DIL typically goes away within 6 months of stopping the medication.

Neonatal Lupus

Neonatal Lupus can affect newborns if their birth parent passes on antibodies for lupus or Sjogren's Syndrome through the placenta during pregnancy.

If the birth parent has these antibodies — whether or not they have lupus — there is a chance an infant can develop Neonatal Lupus.

At birth, they may have:

• a skin rash
• liver problems
• low blood counts

The skin symptoms usually go away within a few weeks, but some infants may have a congenital heart block, in which the heart cannot regulate a normal and rhythmic pumping action. This is a more serious complication, and the infant may need a pacemaker.

For a diagnosis of Lupus to be considered, a person must meet four or more of the following criteria:

1. Malar rash: a butterfly-shaped rash that appears across the cheeks and nose.
2. Discoid rash: raised red patches that develop on the skin.
3. Photosensitivity: a skin rash that appears after exposure to sunlight.
4. Oral or nose ulcers: ulcers that appear in a person’s mouth or nose.
5. Nonerosive arthritis: a type of arthritis that does not destroy the bones around the joints but does cause tenderness and swelling.
6. Pericarditis or pleuritis: Inflammation that affects the lining around the heart (pericarditis) or lungs (pleuritis).
7. Kidney disorder: high levels of protein or cellular casts in the urine if a person has a kidney problem, such as lupus nephritis.
8. Neurologic disorder: a person may experience seizures, psychosis, or problems with thinking and reasoning.
9. Hematologic (blood) disorder: blood may show a low red blood cell count (anemia), a low white blood cell count (leukopenia), or a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia).
10. Immunologic disorder: tests showing that there are anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies, anti-Smith antibodies, or antiphospholipid antibodies (APLs).
11. Positive ANA: a test detecting high levels of ANA (Anti Nuclear Antibodies)

The symptoms of lupus occur in times of flare-ups. Between flare-ups, people usually experience times of remission, when there are few or no symptoms.

Other Symptoms:

• fatigue
• muscle and joint pain
• fever
• chest pain when breathing deeply
• sensitivity to sunlight
• mouth ulcers
• memory problems
• headaches
• unusual hair loss
• pale or purple fingers or toes from cold or stress, known as Raynaud's Disease
• arthritis

The symptoms of lupus can vary widely, including between males and females. While males are less likely than females to have lupus, the symptoms tend to be more severe. 

Symptoms more commonly seen in females:

• hair loss
• sensitivity to sunlight
• mouth ulcers
• arthritis
• malar rash

Symptoms more commonly seen in males:

• cardiovascular complications
• low blood count
• weight loss
• kidney complications
• chest pain

• Genes- Research shows that certain genes play a role in the development of lupus. The different forms of these genes carry instructions for proteins that may affect the immune system. Researchers are studying how high levels or low levels of these proteins may be important in the development of the disease.  
• Environment / Toxins - Exposure to certain factors in the environment – such as viral infections, sunlight, certain medications, and smoking – may trigger lupus. Holistic Practitioners feel the common denominator in those diagnosed with lupus is toxicity.  Viral, Bacterial (particularly lyme), Fungal, Mold, Chemical (including medications, food additives, artificial sweeteners and food preservatives), Heavy Metals, Vaccinations, Geopathic stressors, Emotional stressors and dietary choices (particularly sugar) all can play a part in triggering this autoimmune response.
• Immune and Inflammatory Influences- Researchers think that if the body does not remove damaged or dead cells normally, this could trick the immune system into constantly fighting against itself. This process could cause an autoimmune response, which could lead to lupus. In addition, researchers are studying different cell types and how changes could lead to lupus.  

VERY IMPORTANT:

• Calcium, and magnesium (NS Bone Health 2 capsules 2 times daily): Necessary for pH balance and for protection against bone loss due to arthritis. For calcium, take up to 2,000 mg daily. For magnesium, take up to 350 daily.
• Essential fatty acids (fish oil or flaxseed oil) NS Omega Complete 2 capsules daily: Aids in arthritis prevention. 
• Amino Acid Complex (NS Amino Complex 4 caps daily):  L-cysteine and L-methionine, plus L-lysine: L-cysteine and L-methionine assist in cellular protection and preservation; important in skin formation and in white blood cell activity. L-lysine aids in preventing mouth sores and offers protection against viruses. Take 500–1,000 mg each daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption.
• Proteolytic enzymes (NS Proteolytic Enzymes 2 capsules 3 times daily ): Powerful anti-inflammatory and antiviral agents. Take as directed on label. Take with meals

***Note Cut all processed flour and sugar from diet.

IMPORTANT:

• NAC (N Acetylcysteine 600-1800mg daily): Antioxidant that replenishes glutathione. ***Not for those with certain genetic mutations.  Consult a physician prior to recommending.
• DHEA (AI DHEA):  Only in certain cases.  Check with their physician prior to recommending.
• Turmeric (NS Turmeric)):  Assists with inflammation and pain. Take 2 capsules 3 times daily, with meals.
• Glucosamine sulfate (NS Glucosamine Joint Formula 2-6 capsules daily): Glucosamine sulfate is important for healthy skin, bones, and connective tissue.
• Raw thymus glandular, and raw spleen glandular (NS Immune Formula 2-6 capsules daily): Glandulars that enhance thymus and spleen immune function. 
•  Zinc, plus copper (EQ Zinc plus copper): Zinc aids in normalizing immune function; protects the skin and organs and promotes healing. Copper is needed to balance with zinc. For zinc, take up to 40 mg daily. Do not exceed this amount from all supplements. For copper, take 3 mg daily.
• CoQ10(FGF CoMega, EQ CoQ10):  Supports mitochondrial function and reduces fatigue

HELPFUL:

• Acidophilus (EQ HDA, BL Probiotics Plus): Protects against intestinal bacterial imbalances.  Take on an empty stomach.
• Kelp (EQ Kelpcom 35-50 drops 2-3 times daily): Supplies commonly deficient minerals. 
• Multivitamin and mineral complex (NS Liquid Life, NS Colloidal Minerals Plus,) with vitamin B complex: Multivitamin and mineral complex supplies commonly deficient nutrients. Vitamin B complex heals mouth sores, protects against anemia, and protects the skin tissues. Important for brain function and digestion. For multivitamin and mineral complex, take as directed on label. Use a high-quality, hypoallergenic formula. For vitamin B complex, take  50 mg of each major B vitamin (thiamine and riboflavin) 3 times daily, with meals. Amounts of individual vitamins in a complex will vary. Do not exceed 35 mg niacin, 100 mg vitamin B6, and 1,000 mcg folate daily.
• Pycnogenol, or grape seed extract (NS Grape Seed Extract 2 caps 3 times daily): Powerful antioxidants and free radical scavengers that protect the cells. For either, take as directed on label.
• Vitamin A with mixed carotenoids, plus natural beta-carotene (BL Total Nutrition Plus): Vitamin A with mixed carotenoids is a potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger needed for tissue healing. Natural beta-carotene is an antioxidant and vitamin A precursor. For vitamin A with mixed carotenoids, take up to 3,000 mcg (10,000 IU) daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 3,000 mcg (10,000 IU) daily. Use emulsion form for easier assimilation. For natural beta-carotene, take 15,000 IU daily.

• NS Aquamax
• NS Amino Complex
• NS Astragalus
• NS Bone Health
• NS Colloidal Minerals Plus
• NS Glucosamine Joint Formula
• NS Grape Seed Extract
• NS Green Max
• NS Immune Formula
• NS Liquid Life
• NS Omega Complete
• NS Oregano
• NS Proteolytic Enzymes
• NS Turmeric
• EQ CoQ10
• EQ HDA
• EQ Kelpcom
• EQ NAC (N Acetyl Cysteine)
• EQ Zinc plus Copper
• FF Zavita (Immunomodulator) 
• FGF CoMega
• AI DHEA
• BL Probiotic Plus
• BL Total Nutrition Plus
• JW Frankincense Essential Oil
• JW Bergamot Essential Oil

Depends on the cause as to what other products might be beneficial:

Blood Cleansers Like:  NS Nettle, NS Milk Thistle, NS Dandelion, NS Anti-Microbials seem to always be beneficial.

• vegetables, including green leafy vegetables such as:
  • kale
  • spinach
  • cabbage
  • arugula
• whole grains such as:
  • brown rice
  • couscous
  • oats
  • barley
  • buckwheat
  • rye
  • spelt
• healthy fats such as:
  
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • avocados
  • olives

• oily fish such as:
  • mackerel
  • sardines
  • tuna
  • herring
• nuts, beans, and legumes
• fruits

 The Pain Slayer:

Ingredients:

• 1–2 large handfuls of sweet cherries, sliced in half and pits removed
• 1 cucumber, skin removed
• 1 lemon, skin removed
• 4–5 large leaves of kale
• 4–5 leaves of romaine lettuce
• 1 large apple (Gala, Fuji or Honey Crisp)
• 1 inch nub of ginger, skin removed

Directions:

• Juice all ingredients together in a juicer, not a blender.
• Serve immediately over ice.

Take me to the Tropics:

Ingredients:

• 1–2 handfuls fresh cut pineapple (amount depends on your taste preference)
• 1 cucumber, skin removed
• 1 small handful of fresh mint (wash well!)
• 1 inch nub of ginger, skin removed

Directions:

• Juice all ingredients in a juicer and serve over ice.

The Turmeric Tune-Up:

Ingredients:

• 1 large carrot
• 1 orange
• 1 and 1/2 cups coconut water
• 1 tbs raw honey
• black pepper
• 1 tbs freshly grated ginger
• 1 to 2 tbs freshly grated turmeric (OR ½ to 1 tsp of dry turmeric powder)

Directions:

• Juice carrot and  orange in a juicer and transfer the liquid to a blender.
• Add coconut water into the blender.
• Add raw honey, a dash of black pepper, ginger and turmeric to the blender. 
• Blend on high until smooth.

Go Ginger Go:

Ingredients:

• 3 stalks celery
• ½ cucumber, skin removed
• 1 lemon, skin removed
• 1 knob of ginger, between 1–1 ½ inch piece, skin removed
• 1 cup fresh pineapple
• 1 cup spinach

Directions:

• Add all ingredients to a juicer (not a blender).
• Serve over ice if preferred. 

• Smokey Quartz
• Aquamarine
• Bloodstone
• Green Jade
• Chrysocolla
• Hematite
• Quartz Crystal

• Curcumin
• Ginger
• Tulsi

• Sepia : In cases where lupus begins around or just after menopause, sepia is one of the best homeopathic medicines for SLE. There are hot flashes with weakness and increased sweating. The patient may tend to faint easily.
• Apis : When there is the involvement of the kidneys, apis is one of the best homeopathic medicines for lupus or SLE. There are casts in the urine. It causes inflammation of the kidneys and the urine is scanty. Burning and stinging pain while urinating is often present. Oedema of various body parts.
• Arsenic Alb : When there is an interstitial disease of the lungs or any other involvement of the lungs, arsenic is one of the best homeopathic medicines for SLE. There is a cough which is worse after midnight and lying on the back. Expectoration is white, frothy, and scanty. Anxiety and restlessness are common accompanying symptoms.
• Belladonna : When intense fever is present, belladonna is one of the best homeopathic medicines for SLE or lupus. The skin is red, hot, and flushed. There is throbbing pain in the carotid arteries.
• Hydrocotyl : When there is extensive involvement of skin, hydrocotyle is one of the best homeopathic remedies for SLE. There is dryness of the skin and even the eruptions on the skin are dry in nature. Exfoliation of the skin is common.

• Cognitive Rehabilitation and Therapies
• Meditation
• Breathing Exercises
• Spinal Manipulation
• Energy Therapies
• Rife Frequency
• Biomat
• Bemer
• Ionic Foot Bath Detoxification *Very effective
• Chiropractic
• Massage Therapy

• Detox Baths using Epsom Salts

• CV 3: This is an intersection point of three different meridians – the Spleen, Kidney, and Liver. It is known to be a powerful point in acupuncture and acupressure.
• Kidney 3: This is the Kidney revival point; it’s between your medial anklebone and the Achilles tendon. It helps to tonify Kidney energy and restore yin and yang.
• Lung 9: When excess yang is causing aggravation of Lupus symptoms, this is the point to stimulate to calm the excess yang.
• Bladder 20: This point is commonly used for conditions such as diarrhea, vomiting, jaundice, anorexia, backache, and swelling. It can also be used with cupping.
• Bladder 23: This point is used to relieve dizziness, lower back pain, asthma, diarrhea, blurred vision, and urination problems.
• Stomach 36:  This point is called ‘Leg Three Miles’; It can be found just below the knee at the joint between the femur and the tibia. This is to tonify Blood and Qi and improve circulation.

• Copaiba: the best anti-inflammatory essential oil due to its high level of beta-caryophyllene. This oil can aid significantly in the reduction of pain. Copaiba is also emollient so can help moisturize the skin and boost circulation.
• Lemon: helps to cleanse the body and boost circulation. It also helps to revitalize and uplift mood.
• Pine: boosts the immune system, reduces inflammation, and helps to stimulate, balance, and enhance the mood. Pine oil can also aid in the reduction of skin conditions.
• Helichrysum: supports the nervous system and boosts health to ward off disease. It is an anti-inflammatory to aid pain relief and skin conditions and also an antioxidant which aids in lymphatic drainage.
• Frankincense: can aid in a reduction in the immune reactions associated with lupus. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can aid with pain relief. It can also aid stress relief and promote relaxation.
• Clary Sage: uplifts the mood, relieves stress and anxiety. It also helps to balance hormones and relieve menstrual tension. Clary Sage helps the skin by reducing inflammation and regulating sebum production. It also helps to relieve headaches and muscle stiffness.
• Bergamot: is an anti-depressant and a stimulant. It stimulates and aids digestion, enhances mood and promotes energy.