Table of Contents
Throughout my Lupus journey, to make myself feel better about the symptoms I was experiencing due to having Lupus, I would often say, “At least I have had nothing come up on my face.” looking back, it feels like I was emptying fact as this year I had my first experience of the dreaded butterfly rash.
I first noticed that areas on my face were feeling itchy, and eventually, there was a lovely rash over my face.
Before I continue with my thoughts, I should explain what butterfly rash is.
What Is Butterfly Rash?
Often referred to as a malar, is a rash that appears across the bridge of the nose and on the cheeks. It can be a slight blush or an intense red, or in my case, dark brown in colour and scaly and is usually a response to UV light exposure, but only sometimes. While many lupus patients have experienced Butterfly Rash, it is not valid for all and it is extremely lupus-like in its characteristically and inconsistency, underscoring the need for preparedness and resilience to manage its effects.
People with Lupus tend to have higher amounts of skin cells that are responsible for inflammation and cell death, coupled with a more difficult time clearing the dead cells. These could both be to blame for the unsightly rashes, which can be red, scaly, and sometimes painful.
What Causes Butterfly Rash?
Butterfly Rash can also be acknowledged, and other rashes can appear due to an oncoming Lupus Flare, indicating that it is time to consult with a rheumatologist to make amendments to the treatment plan to avoid further symptoms. Throughout the last six months, I had regularly experienced many symptoms during Lupus Flare due to work and family stress, which was also an indicator that I needed to slow down.
How Does It Feel To Have Butterfly Rash?
Being a blogger, I have a ton of makeup to diagnose the rash and the hyperpigmentation that came up as a result. However, I do not like to wear makeup every day, and when I go bare, I sometimes feel self-conscious and humiliated, as if everyone were looking at me. And dreading the inevitable question, “What is that on your face?” often I feel the need to blurt out “, It’s a rash caused by my Lupus! “It’s not contagious!” Thinking about the scene in the movie Philadelphia in which the colleagues and partners in the law firm of the character played by Tom Hanks notice a legion he had on his face because of having aids.
As previously mentioned, the butterfly rash often has an itchy sensation and an unsightly appearance. This can be uncomfortable and requires empathy and understanding from others. This discomfort also usually leads to me subconsciously rubbing my face and smudging my makeup.
Coping with my Butterfly rash
As this was my first time experiencing the butterfly rash, I immediately sought professional advice and self-care measures. I consulted health professionals who prescribed a corticosteroid cream. I also researched alternative solutions, highlighting the importance of self-care and seeking professional advice to manage my health and well-being.
While many of the symptoms I have experienced during a Lupus flare regularly reoccur, there are also symptoms that I experienced only once or twice and have experienced since. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the butterfly rash is not one of them. All the while, I am mindful that it could be an ongoing part of my Lupus journey. In the meantime, I research skincare products that will help improve the hyperpigmentation I am left with as a result.
Lupus warriors, have you ever experienced Butterfly Rash? if so how did you cope?
If so, please share how you coped in the comments.
Discover more about my journey with Lupus by checking out these insightful posts:
- Lupus Symptoms: 22 Signs of Lupus You Shouldn’t Ignore
- ThisIsLupus:11 Essential Tools To Help You Self-Advocate Effectively
- 9 Important Facts for Family & Friends Of Lupus Sufferers
- How to Support Someone with Lupus?
- What Not To Say To Someone With Lupus
- Living with Lupus – The Lesser Known Side of the Story
Disclaimer:
The information and tips in this post are based on my experiences and are provided for general information and educational purposes to aid other Lupus warriors in finding their own coping mechanisms. They do not constitute medical advice for any specific medical condition or situation. This Wots Her Name Again? should not be used or relied upon to diagnose or treat a problem, disease, or medical condition.
Discover Valuable Resources for Navigating Lupus – Your Guide to More Support:
Rest assured, if you or a loved one are diagnosed with Lupus and need further assistance or information, these reliable and trusted resources can provide the help you need.
Lupus UK
Lupus UK: A Key Resource for Those Affected by SLE Lupus UK is a voluntary organization in the United Kingdom that crucially provides information and support to individuals affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Lupus Trust
The Lupus Trust (previously St Thomas Lupus Trust) is dedicated to supporting lupus research at Guy’s Hospital and raising awareness of
Hibbs Lupus Trust
A Personal Journey Turned into a Mission The Hibbs Lupus Trust, a registered charity founded in 2011 by the Hibbs family, was born from a personal journey with Lupus and a strong desire to create meaningful change.
