Sudden Swelling of Hands, Feet, and Lips: Lupus or Sun Exposure?

Q: Sudden Swelling of Hands, Feet, and Lips: Lupus or Sun Exposure?

Hello： According to netizens, symptoms appear to occur under sun exposure, which may be related to sun exposure and could be a physiological reaction or other underlying health issues. <br>For safety, it is recommended to follow up with an outpatient clinic for further examinatio

Sudden swelling of the hands, feet, and lips?

I have lupus erythematosus.
Yesterday, during the Qingming Festival, I was exposed to the sun while visiting graves.
After that, I felt nauseous, had a headache, and my hands and feet became swollen.
Could this be related to sun exposure or is it a symptom of kidney disease?

Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/04/05

Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine

Hello: According to netizens, symptoms appear to occur under sun exposure, which may be related to sun exposure and could be a physiological reaction or other underlying health issues.
For safety, it is recommended to follow up with an outpatient clinic for further examination to clarify the true cause.
Thank you.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tseng Kuo-Sen, Taoyuan General Hospital.

Reply Date: 2008/04/05

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, including sudden swelling of the hands, feet, and lips, along with nausea, vomiting, and headaches after sun exposure, can indeed be concerning, especially as you have a history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is important to understand the potential connections between these symptoms and your underlying condition.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various organs and systems in the body, including the skin, kidneys, and joints. One of the well-known triggers for lupus flares is sun exposure, particularly ultraviolet (UV) light. Many individuals with lupus experience photosensitivity, which means that exposure to sunlight can lead to skin rashes, fatigue, and other systemic symptoms. The swelling you are experiencing could be a manifestation of a lupus flare triggered by sun exposure.
In addition to photosensitivity, lupus can also affect the kidneys, leading to a condition known as lupus nephritis. Symptoms of lupus nephritis can include swelling (edema), particularly in the hands and feet, as well as changes in urine output, high blood pressure, and other systemic symptoms. If your kidneys are affected, this could explain the swelling you are experiencing.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to consider both possibilities: the acute reaction to sun exposure and the potential for kidney involvement due to lupus. The nausea and headaches could also be related to dehydration or heat exhaustion from being in the sun for an extended period, which can exacerbate your overall condition.

Here are some recommendations:
1. Seek Medical Attention: It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may recommend blood tests, urinalysis, or imaging studies to assess kidney function and determine whether your symptoms are related to lupus activity or another underlying issue.

2. Avoid Sun Exposure: Given your history of lupus, it is advisable to minimize sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM). When you do go outside, wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF.

3. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially if you are experiencing nausea and vomiting. Dehydration can worsen symptoms and lead to further complications.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.

5. Consider Medication Adjustments: If you are on medications for lupus, discuss with your doctor whether any adjustments are needed, especially if you are experiencing increased symptoms.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to sun exposure, they could also indicate a flare of lupus or kidney involvement. It is crucial to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Your health and well-being are paramount, and timely intervention can help manage your symptoms effectively.

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