Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can affect the throat in multiple ways and may cause a sore throat and swollen lymph nodes.
SLE is the most common form of lupus. Although it can cause throat symptoms, it usually responds to treatment.
Throat pain in people with lupus is also relatively common. According to older research, as many as
Read on to learn about throat symptoms, early lupus symptoms, sore throat remedies, and more.

Lupus is a complex disease that affects every person differently, which makes it difficult to diagnose and track.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that
Lupus sore throat symptoms can include:
- sores or ulcers in the mouth that are typically painless
- inflamed gums
- swollen lymph nodes around the throat
- inflammation of the mucous membrane
- swollen epiglottis, which is the flap of tissue behind the tongue
Lupus can also affect the larynx, also known as the voice box. This is often asymptomatic, but it may cause:
- hoarseness
- difficulty speaking
- pain when swallowing
- chronic cough
- trouble breathing
Lupus is difficult to diagnose because it attacks the body in multiple ways. Every person will respond differently to those attacks.
Research from 2020 identified factors that could help diagnose the condition in most people experiencing it. They include:
- a butterfly rash across the bridge of the nose and on the cheeks
- noninfectious fever
- hair loss
- discoid rash
- skin is sensitive to sunlight or UV light
- joint pain
SLE is more common in women than men. Among people diagnosed with lupus,
A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.
Treating lupus can require a team approach because the disease can affect multiple organs.
It is a chronic condition and has no cure. However, treatment
Many medications are used to treat SLE and its manifestations, including sore throat.
Doctors
NSAIDS are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms.
Whether taken orally, given as an injection, or applied to the skin, steroids can be effective in reducing the pain, swelling, and immune system overactivity associated with lupus. Physicians may use
The antimalarial medications hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine phosphate are used to treat fatigue, rashes, joint pain, and lung inflammation. They can help prevent the sudden worsening of symptoms such as sore throat and may also help prolong the lives of people living with lupus.
A person with lupus may also need medication to address the complications of the disease. Lupus can increase a person’s risk of high blood pressure, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and blood clots, which can all be treated with medication.
Many of the drugs used to treat SLE and sore throat can be very powerful and may cause side effects. Therefore, people with lupus need to work closely with their healthcare teams, keep a close eye on their condition, and promptly report any new symptoms or possible side effects.
In addition to medical treatment, a person with lupus can make lifestyle choices and practice self-care that may help them manage their symptoms and prevent flares.
Certain everyday practices can help a person with SLE and sore throat feel more comfortable. These include:
- getting enough rest
- avoiding tobacco
- getting regular exercise
- using sunscreen
- striving to reduce stress
- eating a balanced, healthy diet
Regular exercise can help people achieve a moderate weight and promote a more positive outlook, both of which are
Additionally, since people with lupus should avoid direct exposure to sunlight, they might need to take vitamin D supplements.
- smoking
- lacking physical activity
- having high stress levels
- eating a diet high in salt and fat
- being overweight
Although lupus symptoms can be mild, they can seriously interfere with a person’s quality of life. In some cases, they may even be life threatening. As soon as a person notices symptoms that could be lupus, they should see a physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Additionally, ongoing regular medical care is important because people with lupus have an increased risk for complications such as:
- cardiovascular disease
- heart inflammation
- kidney disease
- stroke
While there is no cure for lupus, prompt diagnosis and treatment can help a person
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and damage anywhere in the body.
SLE, the most common form of lupus, can affect the throat through inflammation, sores, and swelling. This can cause difficulty speaking, pain when swallowing, chronic cough, and trouble breathing.
Lupus cannot be cured. It can usually be managed with treatment, although people with lupus should monitor themselves for side effects during treatment.