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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.
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February 12
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Can lupus cause shoulder pain and pain behind the ear?

Yes, lupus can cause shoulder pain. About 95 percent of people with lupus experience joint problems, and the shoulders are commonly affected. This pain can come from joint inflammation, muscle pain during flares, or conditions like arthritis that often occur with lupus.

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Can lupus cause shoulder pain and pain behind the ear?

Yes, lupus can cause shoulder pain. About 95 percent of people with lupus experience joint problems, and the shoulders are commonly affected. This pain can come from joint inflammation, muscle pain during flares, or conditions like arthritis that often occur with lupus.

Shoulder pain with lupus can feel like:
* Difficulty raising your arm
* Pain that radiates down the arm
* Discomfort that makes sleeping or daily tasks challenging
* Pain that worsens with deep breathing

During lupus flares, body aches and muscle pain are common throughout the body, which can include the shoulder area. Regarding pain behind the ear, certain types of lupus can affect the skin and cause itching or discomfort in the ear area. Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) can cause skin lesions or rashes, and acute cutaneous lupus can appear on various parts of the body beyond just the face.

A MyLupusTeam member shared, "I get itchy scabs on my ears whenever I have flare-ups."

If you're experiencing persistent shoulder pain or pain behind your ear, it's important to discuss these symptoms with your rheumatologist or dermatologist. They can determine if lupus is causing your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.

February 12

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