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Lupus and breathlessness - any ideas please?

Posted , 6 users are following.

kate06315
kate06315

i have several autoimmune diseases, the latest of which is lupus. My rheumatologist says he's pretty certain that I've developed it, but still wants to 'keep an open mind' - but he agrees I have all the typical symptoms. Since his 'tentative diagnosis' (well, a month or 2 after actually) I've developed very worrying shortness of breath and even walking on flat ground is a struggle. Does anyone know if this is part of lupus please? Or are there any lupus sufferers who experience breathing difficulties? I'm very afraid I have developed a lung condition sad

I've never had breathing problems before. Thank you to anyone who replies x

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Betabet
    Betabet kate06315

    Posted

    Hi Kate

    I no expert but pretty sure breathlessness is not a common sign of Lupus.  I haven't heard of it before.  I have lupus but had asthma prior to this so I know its not Lupus and I don't think the lupus has ever interfered with my breathing. 

  • marion64534
    marion64534 kate06315

    Posted

    Hi are you on any medications that maybe causing the problems ? I had similar symptoms when I was on methotrexate,once I changed mess it stopped, good luck xx
  • jean20935
    jean20935 kate06315

    Posted

    Hi Kate

    I have suffered with breathing difficulties, also have MCTD, one of which is Lupus. My GP diagnosed me with Pleurisy, which I understand, is one of the "nice" list of problems you can experience with MCTD. It can be quite painful and causes problems not when moving but also sitting and lying down. It DOES clear and go away. Mine went away without any antibiotics after about one month, but I am not saying yours will! You need to get this checked just to make sure. Whilst you are like this...take it steady and look after yourself. It does come back, but it's not so scary the next time around!!!!

  • Loislolalupus
    Loislolalupus kate06315

    Posted

    I was diagnosed with lupus die to a variety of symptoms- One of them was recurring plueracy/ Plueral effusions which used to leave me breathless, have shoulder pain and high pulse (i have been admitted to hospital each time)

    Also when i have a flare up the steriods give me palpitations and leave me breathless.

    lois x

  • leona18728
    leona18728 kate06315

    Posted

    Hi Kate

    I've been diagnosed with lupus over 16 years now and it has been quite settled of late, ( I also have fibro )

    Around three years ago I started having a pain deep in my throat the hospital ran tests on my heart but they were clear and was told I have a strong heart,

    But then started to get out of breath on walking with the pain deep in my throat this went on for weeks being cold made it feel worse, one Dr gave me antibiotics for an infection in my windpipe, well I'm no expert but I know there is nothing in a windpipe to get infected, ( Rhumatologist confirmed this) goes without saying they didn't work

    So still to this day I get breathless on walking and hills make it much worse

    No one has ever connected it to having lupus or even mentioned it so I'm not sure on that one,

    I also have never suffered with breathlessness asthma or bad chests ?

    Hope someone has an answer for you 😊

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