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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Rib and shoulder pain.

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Oceanside, CA

Hello, I was diagnosed with SLE and Lupus nephritis 2018. A few times a year I get extreme pain in my ribs, shoulders and chest. Last year when it was in my chest I ended up in the hospital for inflammation around my heart. They give me prednisone to fix it. Is this a common thing? When it’s just in my shoulders the doctor doesn’t seem to think the lupus is causing it, maybe tension.

November 16, 2024 (edited)
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A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes, Jamie, pericarditis is fairly common with lupus. We also get muscle and joint pains from lupus and joint swelling at times.

November 18, 2024
A MyLupusTeam Member

Did you have symptoms of your kidney involvement

November 17, 2024
MyLupusTeam

Hello! I'm sorry to hear about your pain. Based on my knowledge base, rib and shoulder pain can indeed be associated with lupus, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here are some relevant points:

Potential Causes of Rib and Shoulder Pain in Lupus
- Lung Conditions
- Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Inflammation of the Show Full Answer

Hello! I'm sorry to hear about your pain. Based on my knowledge base, rib and shoulder pain can indeed be associated with lupus, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here are some relevant points:

Potential Causes of Rib and Shoulder Pain in Lupus:
- Lung Conditions:
- Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Inflammation of the tissue covering the lungs.
- Pleural Effusion: Fluid buildup around the lungs.
- Pneumonitis: Swelling of lung tissue.

- Heart Conditions:
- Pericarditis: Inflammation of the tissue covering the heart, which you experienced last year.
- Myocarditis: Swelling of heart tissue.
- Endocarditis: Inflammation or growths on heart valves.

- Other Factors:
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of rib cartilage, common in people with SLE.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Can mimic rib pain.

Symptoms to Watch For:
- Chest Pain: Can be a sign of serious conditions like heart attacks.
- Shortness of Breath, Coughing, Fever: May indicate lung issues.
- Pain Radiating to Back, Shoulders, Arms, Neck, or Jaw: Could be related to heart conditions.

Management:
- Medication: Prednisone is commonly used to reduce inflammation.
- Emergency Care: Seek immediate help if experiencing severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, sweating, nausea, or pain spreading to other areas.

Important Note:
- Consult Your Doctor: Always discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes and ensure appropriate treatment.

For more detailed information, you can visit:
- [Lupus and Rib Pain: Causes and 9 Ways To Manage It](https://www.mylupusteam.com/resources/lupus-and...)
- [Collarbone and Shoulder Blade Pain With Lupus](https://www.mylupusteam.com/resources/collarbon...)

Stay well and take care!

November 16, 2024

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