Noni M Lupus Foundation

12/06/2026

11/06/2026

LUPUS, THE LUNGS & PULMONARY EMBOLISM

Lupus can affect the lungs and blood vessels, making breathing problems one of the more serious complications of the disease.

Some Lupus warriors may develop:
Pleurisy (inflammation of the lining around the lungs)

Interstitial Lung Disease (scarring or inflammation within the lungs)

Pulmonary Hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)

Pulmonary Embolism (a blood clot that blocks blood flow in the lungs)

What Is A Pulmonary Embolism?

A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks an artery.

This can become a medical emergency and requires urgent treatment.

Symptoms May Include:

Sudden shortness of breath
Sharp chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Rapid heartbeat
Dizziness or fainting
Coughing up blood (in some cases)

Why Can Lupus Increase The Risk?

People living with Lupus may have a higher risk because of:

Chronic inflammation

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), a condition that can occur alongside Lupus and increases blood clot risk

Reduced mobility during flare-ups

Certain medications and other health conditions

Damage to blood vessels caused by ongoing inflammation

💜 Protecting Your Lung Health

Take medications as prescribed

Attend regular medical appointments

Report new breathing symptoms immediately

Stay active when medically advised

Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke

Know the warning signs of blood clots

💜 Remember

Breathing difficulties should never be ignored.

Not every Lupus warrior will experience lung complications, but awareness can save lives.

You may look well on the outside while fighting a serious battle within.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for awareness and educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Seek urgent medical attention for sudden chest pain, severe shortness of breath or suspected blood clots.

10/06/2026

Why the Butterfly? Why Purple?

The butterfly symbolizes hope, strength, and resilience. The colour purple represents courage, awareness, and the unwavering spirit of Lupus warriors.

Together, we raise awareness, inspire hope, and remind every warrior: You are seen. You are strong. You are not alone. 💜

09/06/2026

LUPUS: BUTTERFLY RASHES & NASAL SORES

Did You Know?

One of the most recognizable signs of Lupus is the butterfly rash, but Lupus can also cause painful or painless sores inside the nose.

These symptoms may occur during periods of increased disease activity or during a Lupus flare.

What Is A Butterfly Rash?

The butterfly rash (malar rash) is a red, pink, purple, or darker-colored rash that appears across the cheeks and bridge of the nose, forming a butterfly shape.

It may:

Be flat or raised

Worsen after sun exposure

Feel itchy, burning, or tender

Appear differently on different skin tones

⚠️ Sometimes leave areas of skin discoloration

Lupus & Nasal Sores

Lupus can affect the mucous membranes inside the nose and may cause:

Painful sores inside the nose

Nasal ulcers

Crusting inside the nostrils

Nasal irritation

Discomfort when breathing through the nose

⚠️ Some nasal sores may be painless and go unnoticed until examined by a healthcare professional.

Why Do They Occur?

Inflammation caused by Lupus

Immune system activity attacking healthy tissues

UV exposure triggering disease activity

💜 Active Lupus affecting the skin and mucous membranes

When To Contact Your Healthcare Provider

New or worsening facial rash

Persistent nasal sores

Bleeding from nasal ulcers

Signs of infection

Symptoms that do not improve

New skin changes during a flare

💜 How To Protect Your Skin

Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily

Wear hats and protective clothing

Avoid excessive UV exposure

Follow your treatment plan

Keep nasal passages moisturized if recommended by your healthcare provider

💜 Remember

Not every facial rash is Lupus, and not every Lupus warrior develops a butterfly rash.

However, changes in your skin, nose, or mouth should never be ignored.

Early recognition and treatment may help prevent complications and improve quality of life.

💜 “The butterfly may be the symbol of Lupus, but every warrior’s journey is unique.”

⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for awareness and educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

08/06/2026

LUPUS & TONGUE INFLAMMATION (GLOSSITIS)

Did you know?

Some people living with Lupus may experience changes in their tongue, including inflammation, soreness, swelling or a “map-like” appearance.

What Can Happen?

Tongue inflammation (Glossitis)

* The tongue may appear red, swollen, smooth or tender.

Geographic Tongue

* Irregular smooth patches on the tongue that may look like a map.
* These patches can move or change location over time.

Mouth and tongue ulcers

* Painful or painless sores may occur during Lupus flare-ups.

Burning or sensitivity

* Some people experience discomfort when eating spicy, hot or acidic foods.

Possible Causes

Lupus disease activity or flare-ups
Certain medications
Infections
Vitamin deficiencies (B12, iron or folate)
Dry mouth

💜 Tips

Stay hydrated
Maintain good oral hygiene
Avoid foods that irritate the tongue
Speak to your healthcare provider about persistent symptoms

💜 Sometimes the mouth can provide important clues about what is happening inside the body.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for awareness and educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

07/06/2026

LUPUS & SWOLLEN GLANDS

Lupus can sometimes cause the lymph nodes (glands) to become swollen or tender.

🔍 What are lymph nodes?

Lymph nodes are small glands found throughout the body, including:

Behind the ears
Neck
Under the arms
Groin area

They help the body fight infection and are part of the immune system.

⚠️ Why do glands swell in Lupus?

Increased Lupus activity or flare-ups
Infections
Inflammation in the body
Sometimes medications or other medical conditions

Signs to Watch For

🔹 Swollen glands in the neck, underarms or groin
🔹 Tenderness or pain
🔹 Fatigue
🔹 Fever during a flare-up

Swollen glands are not always caused by Lupus, but persistent or unexplained swelling should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Remember

Your body may be fighting an invisible battle that others cannot see.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for awareness and educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment

06/06/2026

LUPUS, DRY MOUTH & TOOTH DECAY

Did you know?

People living with Lupus may be at a higher risk of dental problems due to dry mouth, medications and inflammation.

How Lupus Can Affect Your Oral Health

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Reduced saliva can make it harder to protect teeth and gums.

Mouth Ulcers
Painful or painless sores may occur during Lupus flare-ups.

Swollen or Bleeding Gums
Inflammation can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding.

Tooth Decay & Cavities
A lack of saliva may increase the risk of cavities and dental infections.

Oral Infections
Some medications may increase the risk of infections in the mouth.

Medications That May Contribute

Certain medications, including corticosteroids such as Prednisone, and medications that cause dry mouth, may increase the risk of oral health problems in some people.

💜 Protect Your Smile

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss regularly
Stay hydrated
Visit your dentist regularly
Maintain a balanced diet
Avoid smoking

💜 Healthy teeth and gums are an important part of living well with Lupus.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Never stop or change prescribed medication without consulting your doctor or healthcare provider. This post is for awareness and educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

05/06/2026

LUPUS, EAR SORES & SCARRING

Did you know?

Some people living with Lupus may develop sores, rashes or lesions on or around the ears.

These may:
Cause pain, itching or tenderness
Leave scars or changes in skin colour
Occur during periods of increased disease activity
Be associated with certain forms of skin Lupus, such as discoid Lupus

Signs to watch for

Persistent sores on or around the ears
Scaly or thickened patches of skin
Skin discoloration or scarring
Hair loss around affected areas

Early treatment may help reduce inflammation and prevent permanent scarring.

💜 If you notice new skin changes, speak to your healthcare provider or dermatologist.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for awareness and educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

04/06/2026

LUPUS & MOUTH ULCERS

Did you know?

Mouth ulcers are a common symptom for some people living with Lupus and may sometimes be a sign of increased disease activity or a flare-up.

What causes mouth ulcers?

Lupus flare-ups or disease activity
Certain medications
Infections
Physical or emotional stress
Vitamin deficiencies (such as B12, iron or folate)
Mouth irritation or injury

What to look for

Mouth sores or ulcers inside the mouth
Sores inside the nose
Pain, burning or discomfort
Difficulty eating, drinking or speaking

Not every mouth ulcer is caused by Lupus, but recurring or persistent sores should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Tips that may help

Stay hydrated
Maintain good oral hygiene
Avoid foods that irritate sores
Report new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider

Sometimes the signs of Lupus are small, but they can have a big impact on daily life.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for awareness and educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

03/06/2026

WHO GETS LUPUS?

Lupus can affect anyone — women, men and children.
About 90% of people diagnosed with Lupus are women
About 10% are men

🇿🇦 The exact number of South Africans living with Lupus is unknown, but many people are believed to be affected.

Lupus does not discriminate.
Men can get Lupus too.
Young people can get Lupus.
You cannot tell someone has Lupus just by looking at them.

Together, let’s raise awareness, encourage early diagnosis and support Lupus warriors everywhere.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for awareness and educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.