Can lupus cause chest pain or breathing problems?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Yes, lupus can cause chest pain and difficulty breathing. This happens because lupus triggers inflammation in tissues surrounding the heart and lungs, leading to conditions like pleurisy (inflamed lung lining), pericarditis (inflamed heart lining), pulmonary hypertension, and, rarely, Shrinking Lung Syndrome.

Because these symptoms can overlap with many other conditions—some serious—it's important to identify the likely cause quickly. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify what may be driving your symptoms and guide your next steps, whether that means monitoring at home or seeking urgent care.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if chest pain needs urgent care Discover likely causes of your symptoms Find out if lupus is involved See OTC options for chest discomfort Find a doctor for lupus care Discover medically valid home remedies for chest pain Understand if your breathing issues need evaluation

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Explanation

Lupus, a disease where the body attacks its own tissues, can cause chest pain and breathing problems. This happens because lupus can lead to inflammation in the chest area. Chest Pain: Lupus patients may experience chest pain, which can be a result of inflammation in the lining of the lungs or heart. This inflammation can make breathing painful and difficult. Breathing Problems: Another rare condition related to lupus is called Shrinking Lung Syndrome. This can cause the lungs to not expand fully, leading to difficulty in breathing. It's important for patients with lupus to be aware of these symptoms and if you're experiencing chest pain or breathing difficulties, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be causing them before discussing with your healthcare provider for proper management and care.

(References)

Modi M, Ishimori ML, Sandhu VK, Wallace DJ, & Weisman MH. (2015). Chest pain in lupus patients: the emergency department .... Clinical rheumatology, 25912215.
Shah K, Kondakindi H, Enabi J, & Mukkera S. (2024). Shrinking Lung Syndrome: A Rare Pulmonary .... Cureus, 39109103.
Choudhury S, Ramos M, Anjum H, Ali M, & Surani S. (2020). A Rare Manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Cureus, 32582477.

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