What is a common symptom of SLE that may indicate a flare-up?

A low-grade fever and facial rash are indeed common symptoms that may indicate a flare-up in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). During a flare-up, the immune system becomes more active, leading to inflammation within the body. This heightened immune response can result in various symptoms, including fever, which is an indicator of inflammation or infection.

The facial rash, particularly the "butterfly rash" that appears across the cheeks and nose, is classic for SLE and acts as a significant clinical marker for the disease. The presence of these symptoms suggests that the disease is becoming more active and may require adjustments in management or treatment.

Other symptoms, such as weight loss and increased appetite, are not typical indicators of a flare-up in SLE; rather, they could suggest other health issues. Similarly, while cognitive decline and memory loss can occur in SLE patients, they are usually not considered immediate indicators of a flare-up compared to acute physical symptoms like fever and rash. Increased energy and alertness also do not correlate with a flare-up state in SLE, as flare-ups generally lead to increased fatigue and malaise.