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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bucyrus, OH
January 11
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MyLupusTeam

Can lupus or Sjögren's affect your heart?

Yes, both conditions can impact your heart, and many people experience heart-related complications. In fact, cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in people with lupus, affecting around half of those living with the condition.

Heart issues that can occur with lupus Show Full Answer

Can lupus or Sjögren's affect your heart?

Yes, both conditions can impact your heart, and many people experience heart-related complications. In fact, cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in people with lupus, affecting around half of those living with the condition.

Heart issues that can occur with lupus include:

- Pericarditis (inflammation of the membrane around the heart) - affects about 25% of people with lupus
- Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) - affects 5-10% of people
- Atherosclerosis (buildup of fats and cholesterol in arteries)
- Heart valve problems
- Heart palpitations and irregular heartbeat

A MyLupusTeam member shared: "I have heart problems as a result of lupus. I was having trouble breathing, and my doctor ordered a cardiac MRI with contrast, which showed inflammation around the lining of the heart. It's called pericarditis."

Another member mentioned experiencing palpitations during flares: "Does anyone get palpitations during your flare? I've been getting lots of palpitations and skipped beats this past year."

About Sjögren's and heart involvement:

Up to 14-17.8% of people with lupus also have Sjögren's disease. While Sjögren's primarily affects moisture-producing glands, it can cause similar symptoms to lupus, including joint pain and inflammation that may impact the heart.

It's important to work closely with your rheumatologist and possibly a cardiologist to monitor your heart health regularly.

January 11
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member it seems heart conditions are running in your family. 🤔

January 13
A MyLupusTeam Member

Oh shoot, that doesn't sound good 😖 what does your cardiologist want to do next? Yes, I have tachycardia, bradycardia, hypotension, heart valves are only minimally insufficient thanks God and some other things going on. I would need to have all of my documents here. I found out by chance that I had at least 2 myocardial infarctions which they claim were brought on by blood vessel constriction plus other things. I'm just waiting for recovery from laryngopharyngitis, then I'll receive a Pacemaker, the procedure was supposed to be done last year but I came down with a pesky case which required antibiotics. Much Love to you 💜❤️💜❤️

January 12 (edited)
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes, Kathy, I have mild apical enlargement of my heart, which may be lupus-related cardiomyopathy, though my heart function is thankfully normal. I also have some arrhythmias/palpitations that are not dangerous. What issues are you having, if you're willing to share?

January 12
A MyLupusTeam Member

I feel like Lupus has affected every organ in my body: skin, brain, heart lungs. I’ve always had issues with my stomach so I can’t blame that on lupus!
Deb

January 14

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