Which symptoms may indicate a possible flare-up in a patient diagnosed with SLE?

Which symptoms may indicate a possible flare-up in a patient diagnosed with SLE?

• A. Worsening joint pain and fatigue
• B. Increased appetite and energy
• C. Stable mood and appetite
• D. No symptoms whatsoever

Answer: (A)

Worsening joint pain and fatigue are significant symptoms that can indicate a possible flare-up in a patient diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In SLE, patients often experience periods of remission where symptoms diminish, followed by flare-ups characterized by the exacerbation of symptoms. Joint pain is a common manifestation of SLE due to inflammation in the joints, and fatigue is frequently reported among patients as part of the disease's systemic effects. During a flare-up, patients may experience a resurgence of these symptoms, making their worsening a critical sign to monitor. In contrast, increased appetite and energy typically suggest an improved state of health rather than a flare-up. Similarly, stable mood and appetite indicate that the patient is likely in a controlled phase of the disease, and no symptoms whatsoever would imply that the patient is experiencing a remission rather than a flare. Therefore, the presence of worsening joint pain and fatigue is a clear marker of active disease and potential flare-up in SLE patients.

Worsening joint pain and fatigue are significant symptoms that can indicate a possible flare-up in a patient diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In SLE, patients often experience periods of remission where symptoms diminish, followed by flare-ups characterized by the exacerbation of symptoms. Joint pain is a common manifestation of SLE due to inflammation in the joints, and fatigue is frequently reported among patients as part of the disease's systemic effects. During a flare-up, patients may experience a resurgence of these symptoms, making their worsening a critical sign to monitor.

In contrast, increased appetite and energy typically suggest an improved state of health rather than a flare-up. Similarly, stable mood and appetite indicate that the patient is likely in a controlled phase of the disease, and no symptoms whatsoever would imply that the patient is experiencing a remission rather than a flare. Therefore, the presence of worsening joint pain and fatigue is a clear marker of active disease and potential flare-up in SLE patients.