According to the LFA, because lupus is such a complex disease, it is difficult to predict what would happen to most patients if their disease is left untreated. Therefore, It is important for a patient to be aware of their symptoms. Up to 50 percent of lupus patients may have non-life threatening symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain and rash, according to the LFA. However, due to the risk of disease flares with more severe organ involvement — such as kidney, lung or heart inflammation — lupus patients should have regular evaluations to make sure life-threatening involvement is not developing.
