Researchers from the University of Cambridge and King’s College London have found that increased nightmares and hallucinations may signal the onset of autoimmune diseases like lupus. Credit: SciTechDaily.com Nightmares and hallucinations could be early signs of autoimmune diseases like lupus, potentially improving early diagnosis and treatment, according to a new study.
An increase in nightmares and hallucinations – or ‘daymares’ – could indicate the beginning of autoimmune diseases such as lupus. This is according to an international team led by researchers at the University of Cambridge and King’s College London. They emphasize the importance of recognizing these mental health and neurological symptoms as early warning signs of an impending ‘flare,’ a phase during which the disease intensifies temporarily.
Study Insights on Lupus and Mental Health Symptoms In a study published in eClinicalMedicine today (May 20), researchers surveyed 676 people living with lupus and 400 clinicians, and also carried out detailed interviews with 69 people living with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (including lupus) and 50 clinicians. Lupus is an autoimmune inflammatory disease known for its effect on many organs including the brain. In the study, the team also asked patients about the timing of 29 neurological and mental health symptoms (such as depression, hallucinations, and loss of balance).
In interviews, patients were also asked if they could list the order that s.