Infection can sure set off Lupus. It at least sounds like you got a fast DX, that is something that can be quite tricky. There is no one test for Lupus so I sort of understand it can be a slow process. So at least that is good. And you are right, spinal taps have no place in diagnosing this anymore, that is unreliable and oldschool.

Many cases are negative in anti dsDNA (like mine) where you have to piece together other lab findings and symptoms. But some Lupus cases are positive in this test, and a positive anti dsDNA is almost conclusive for lupus. So saying there is no one test can be untrue for some but true for some.

Every Lupus case is different and I'm lucky I don't have much pain. Still it is always a troublesome illness. One has to really learn what the body can take and rather go with it than other people's demands.

Of course there is no Lupus diet that can make you well, I can eat almost anything and stay the same, minus junk food. That has to be a treat. I can actually cause episodes if I eat too much premade food. Also there is a warning not to eat too much immune boosters like kale and broccoli, but the only food totally out is alfalfa sprouts. I really don't know why, I was just told that. Also not take melatonin supplements.

But I understand everyone wants to be an expert. When I got sick my whole "healthy" family thought you always cause your illnesses. I asked in what way I caused it. They claimed I ate wrong. Thing is I ate better than them and it was a very unfair accusation! Still they think it is something you bring onto yourself and now you live with it.

I also got it after a severe viral infection. It's just bad luck mixed with genes for a strong immune system. Nothing you could affect or cause.

There will always be people who's aunt had Lupus and you will hear all about her Lupus when you need to speak about yours. I'm not quite sure why this happens.

Anyway, like I said, get to know your illness as well as you can, from the inside. People think one should simply go to the doctor and get fixed, but it doesn't work like that. Just like with mental problems, this might be fine sometimes and not so fine other times. I think people are scared when they hear someone has something pretty much incurable, even if it is treatable.

Then how do they think WE feel? It's kind of rough on us also....

Stay strong. Prepare good answers for when people say "... but you look fine!"