MyLupusTeam

How long did it take for people to get diagnosed with lupus?

The path to a lupus diagnosis can be quite lengthy. On average, it takes about six years from when symptoms first appear to receive a definitive diagnosis. This delay happens because lupus symptoms can look like many other health conditions, making it challenging Show Full Answer

How long did it take for people to get diagnosed with lupus?

The path to a lupus diagnosis can be quite lengthy. On average, it takes about six years from when symptoms first appear to receive a definitive diagnosis. This delay happens because lupus symptoms can look like many other health conditions, making it challenging for doctors to pinpoint the cause.

Many people receive at least one misdiagnosis before finally being diagnosed with lupus. In fact, 63 percent of people ultimately diagnosed with lupus will first receive at least one incorrect diagnosis.

MyLupusTeam members have shared their experiences with delayed diagnoses:

- One member was always sick as a child, saw a specialist in their thirties who said it wasn't lupus, and wasn't actually diagnosed until age 58
- Another member had fibromyalgia for 20 years before being diagnosed with lupus at age 64
- A member at age 59 suspected lupus five years earlier but was ignored by their previous doctor

People diagnosed with late-onset lupus (after age 50) often face additional challenges getting diagnosed because other age-related health issues can mask lupus symptoms, making it even harder to identify.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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