ForumBloodwork & Biomarkers

Lupus flare? A virus?

6 replies4 peopleJul 24, 2026☆ Follow
Summary

how to tell if symptoms are a lupus flare or virus when surgery is scheduled soon

The original poster has been ill for days with exhaustion, nausea, aches and vomiting that overlap lupus and possible infection, normally managed with steroids but paused ahead of an operation. Suggestions include bloodwork for inflammation markers and urine strips to check for flare indicators, plus basic rest and hydration. An ER visit later confirms a self-limiting virus rather than flare.

What this discussion establishes

Nothing here is advice.

6 replies · 4 people
WarmSparrow33archiveopening postJul 24

I've been feeling really ill for three days now with extreme tiredness, feeling sick to my stomach, and pains in my muscles and joints. It's tricky to tell apart sometimes since the signs can be similar. Normally I'd begin a decreasing amount of steroids as my rheumatologist advises, but with an operation coming up next Tuesday or the one after, I won't do that without checking with my surgeon and rheumatologist first. Yesterday I felt so bad I wasn't sure I'd get from the car into the house. Hot weather tends to trigger my lupus badly.

CopperSignal27archiveJul 24

Do you think they'd proceed with the surgery if it's a lupus flare or a virus? Maybe a simple blood test checking inflammation levels such as crp could distinguish between them and help decide whether to go forward.

RustLantern55archiveJul 24

If it's a virus, it might clear up in two weeks by the time of the surgery, which would clarify things. I understand, though—lupus can really knock you out during a flare. Have you considered urine test strips to check for things like microalbumin, protein, and leukocytes? They help me identify a flare since positives show up when I'm having one. I use a multi-panel version like the ones at medical offices. If you don't know for sure, just try to drink enough fluids, eat when possible, and rest. Sorry to hear this.

WarmSparrow33archiveJul 25
↳ replying to @CopperSignal27

They wouldn't proceed if I had a virus. A lupus flare might be okay but n

WarmSparrow33archiveJul 25

I'm still feeling terrible. My husband is insisting I head to the emergency room. I'm staying hydrated with lots of water but unable to eat anything, and I'm vomiting with bad diarrhea. My mom believes it's that stomach virus from vegetables, though I can't recall the exact name. It doesn't make sense since I haven't had any fresh produce in weeks. I suspect this is more than just a lupus flare.

LevelAlder29archiveJul 26
↳ replying to @WarmSparrow33

I hope they can figure out what's wrong and help you! Glad your husband is there supporting you. Wishing you the best, things have been tough recently. Big hugs.

WarmSparrow33archiveJul 26
↳ replying to @LevelAlder29

Thanks. The doctors said it's a virus that just needs to pass on its own. Life isn't always simple for me, but I feel fortunate with a great husband, family, and excellent doctors. I handle things day by day.

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