What’s the Prognosis for Lupus Patients?

Thanks to modern medicine and ongoing scientific research, lupus patients have a better prognosis than ever before. According to lupus.org, between 80 percent and 90 percent of people living with the disease will have a normal life expectancy.

MORE: Nine important facts about lupus you may not know. 

However, because lupus is so unpredictable in where (and how) it strikes the body, some patients will have severe lupus with organ involvement that could become life-threatening.

Lupus affects patients very differently, and no two people living with the disease will have the same experience. Some will have mild cases with long periods of remission, whereas a small percentage will have severe lupus with many flare-ups and life-threatening complications.

Those who have mild to moderate lupus without organ involvement can enjoy a normal lifespan so long as they take their medications, look after their general health and follow their doctor’s advice.

Some lupus patients will have frequent hospitalizations, but it’s quite rare. Most people living with the disease have no more hospital stays than people without lupus, particularly if they follow a healthy lifestyle and manage their condition effectively.

There is a common misconception that the majority of lupus patients will only live for 10 years following diagnosis. This is simply because of the way it’s calculated — studies have found that 80 percent to 90 percent of lupus patients will live for 10 years after developing the disease. The problem is that after 10 years, they’re no longer studied and cease to be part of the statistics. It’s very probable that the majority of those lupus patients continued to live healthy lives for many years after the 10-year mark.

MORE: Tips for eating well with lupus.

Lupus News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.