Severe Generalized Edema in SLE Patient

[vigilant07]

I was diagnosed with SLE several months ago (athletic female in early 20s) and currently am not on any steroid treatment, only Plaquinil. Today I experienced a gradual increase in swelling all over my body, starting in my legs and eventually extending into my face, lips, neck lymph nodes, etc. The edema in my lower legs was so bad I could hardly walk. I'm not allergic to anything and it was a very gradual onset over the course of the day. I'm not able to see my Dr. until after the New Year so I'm highly curious what's going on and if it's possibly just one of those mysterious Lupus symptoms that will pass. I haven't checked my blood pressure, but I generally run fairly low due to my activity levels...so I am quite sure it's not hypertension related.

[Tom Plamondon PA-C]

This may be a flare of the lupus.

Moreover, this edema may be caused by nephrosis (abnormality of the kidney characterized by protein in urine >3.5 grams/day, hypertension and swelling):
I would check routine urine analysis, the 24 urine sample for protein, serum for albumin levels, and check for high blood pressure.

Secondary, examine the joints for arthritis (warmth, swelling, pain).

Generalized edema is not an adverse effect of Plaquinil.

Your physician will discuss treatment options.

Keep us posted.