Achy Joints, Swelling, Butterfly Rash? You May Have Lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where your body's immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues, and as a result damages your skin, joints and organs.

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, it is estimated that 1.5 million Americans and at least five million individuals worldwide have a form of lupus.

There are many unpleasant symptoms associated with lupus, the most common being joint pain and stiffness, muscle aches, weakness, fatigue, a butterfly-shaped rash across the nose and cheeks, other skin rashes, weight loss or weight gain, and anemia.

Unfortunately, lupus can be very difficult to diagnose. You may go through numerous tests and still be left with unanswered questions, not to mention a delay in the healing process. This is exactly what happened to Marisa Zeppieri-Caruana.

After being struck by a drunk driver, her symptoms of lupus were triggered and quickly emerged. Maria became extremely ill and doctors couldn't figure out what was causing her health to decline. After about two months, doctors were finally able to give her a diagnosis of lupus.

What advice does Marisa have for anyone who might be suffering from lupus?

Listen in as Marisa shares her personal story on her lupus diagnosis and why it inspired her to write a book about the disease.