Concerns About My Daughter’s Neck Pain and Lupus
A few months ago, my daughter, who is 13, received a diagnosis of lupus. Since then, we have been working through the challenges that come with it. Fortunately, her lab results from the appointment two weeks back were very encouraging. However, this morning she began to express discomfort, specifically complaining about pain in her neck when she turns her head. She had spent the previous day swimming and kayaking with her friends, which I initially thought might have caused the issue. After taking an Advil from my bag, she felt fine for most of the day. Yet, as the afternoon progressed, she mentioned that the pain had returned and was holding her neck quite rigidly. She seemed to be in considerable discomfort, and just before bedtime, she reported a sharp headache. This has raised my level of concern, as it feels beyond a mere muscle strain. I asked her if she wanted to visit the doctor, but she declined, stating she simply wanted to sleep. She went to bed not long ago, and I plan to check on her soon. Still, I'm left pondering whether this situation relates to her condition with lupus, if it’s due to muscle strain, or potentially something else. She hasn’t developed a fever, yet she was quite upset before heading to bed. Given her lupus diagnosis, should this be a concern we address in the morning? I suspect the pain may stem from muscle issues and recognize I might be overreacting as a mom, but I can’t shake the feeling that the lack of relief is worrisome.
Answers (1)
7/21/2025, 3:30:58 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned when your daughter experiences new symptoms, especially given her recent lupus diagnosis. Neck pain in a young person can arise from various sources, including muscle strain, postural issues, or potentially flare-ups related to lupus.
Explanation: Lupus can affect the musculoskeletal system, leading to symptoms like joint and muscle pain or inflammation. The fact that your daughter was engaged in physical activities just before the onset of her neck pain could indicate a muscle strain. However, persistent or worsening pain, especially accompanied by a headache, should be monitored closely, as it could also point to inflammation or tension, which can sometimes occur in lupus patients.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on her neck pain and headache over the next few hours. Note any changes or if the symptoms worsen, particularly if she develops a fever or has difficulty moving her neck.
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Rest and Modify Activity: Encourage her to rest and avoid any strenuous activities until her symptoms improve. You might suggest gentle neck stretches if she feels comfortable, but only if there's no pain while doing them.
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Pain Management: Continue using over-the-counter pain relievers like Advil, but follow dosing instructions carefully. If the pain persists despite these measures, it’s an indication for further evaluation.
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Check for Other Symptoms: Note if she experiences any new symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or radiating pain, as these may warrant immediate attention.
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Consult in the Morning: If her symptoms do not improve overnight or if you remain concerned, it would be best to consult with her healthcare provider in the morning. Given her lupus, it’s important to discuss new or worsening symptoms with her doctor.
Your proactive approach is critical, and you are not overreacting—staying vigilant about her health is important, especially with a chronic condition like lupus. Stay supportive and check on her regularly; ensuring she feels comfortable and secure will also help her emotional well-being.
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