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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.

I've been coughing since Thursday, May 28 2026 I'm worried this could be lung involvement again, I had pleural effusion(s) in the past, I

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Berlin Köpenick, DE

Feel silly but I can't shake the feeling of being concerned because my legs were very swollen ,in the morning I had swollen eyelids, my face and fingers seemed swollen too, but I'm not sure.....

June 1
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Answer Summary

Members responded with both heart and helpful advice to someone worried about a cough and swelling that recalled a past experience with... Read more

Members responded with both heart and helpful advice to someone worried about a cough and swelling that recalled a past experience with pleural effusion, with many encouraging her to take her symptoms seriously and seek care right away. Several members shared their own frustrating experiences of labs coming back normal despite feeling very unwell, and offered practical tips like documenting symptoms weekly, sending portal messages to doctors, and advocating for full lab panels and imaging like CT or MRI scans. A recurring theme was the importance of self-advocacy, listening to your body, and leaning on community support while navigating the unpredictability of lupus.

A MyLupusTeam Member

I would check with Rheumatology , Neurology and Pulmonary Doctor ( other Specialist) Hematology /Oncologist for follow up- especially if you had a Thoracentesis done within the last year or earlier ? May have fluid Build up in Lungs- this has unfortunate been my experience. And sadly to say that the only time I came /went to ER was the only way to get a full CT, MRI or other full tests regarding my Lupus symptoms. And I had a Blood Clot- which I still not understanding the signs, Legs swell when my Lupus flares up especially under stress or medication changes.

June 2
MyLupusTeam

Please don't feel silly — those concerns are completely valid, and with a history of pleural effusion, it's absolutely right to take these symptoms seriously. The combination of coughing, leg swelling, and facial/finger puffiness together are signs that need prompt medical attention. With lupus and a prior pleural effusion Show Full Answer

Please don't feel silly — those concerns are completely valid, and with a history of pleural effusion, it's absolutely right to take these symptoms seriously. The combination of coughing, leg swelling, and facial/finger puffiness together are signs that need prompt medical attention. With lupus and a prior pleural effusion, a new cough could potentially signal lung involvement returning. Pleural effusion can feel like pressure or squeezing in the chest and makes breathing harder.

The swelling in your legs, face, and fingers alongside a cough is a combination that a doctor needs to evaluate right away. These symptoms together can sometimes point to something that needs urgent care.

Please seek medical attention today — not tomorrow. Let your rheumatologist or doctor know about:

- The cough starting May 28
- Swollen legs
- Puffy eyelids, face, and fingers in the morning
- Your history of pleural effusion(s)

If at any point you develop chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or your leg swelling becomes painful or is only in one leg, go to the emergency room immediately.

June 1
A MyLupusTeam Member

I pray that your doctor can give you some clarity and help you with this 🙏

June 1
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member I document those symptoms and send them portal messages weekly with my symptoms 💜 and sometimes the labs aren't as bad and they say the same thing

June 2
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes, that's me alright🙁Usually I'm having all sorts of symptoms at once, blood gets drawn and I'm being told my labs are fine, crazy

June 1

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