Los Angeles, Dec 28 (IANS): Pop star Selena Gomez is reportedly suffering from lupus, an autoimmune disease. She had to cancel several tour dates for Asia and Australia "to address the disease", said a source.

Originally, it was reported the 21 year-old wanted to take some time off for herself and be with her family, but the latest buzz is that Gomez is suffering from lupus, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

Lupus can harm the skin, kidneys, heart, nervous system and blood cells.

Gomez was reportedly diagnosed with the disease a couple of years ago and she has suffered multiple "flares" recently that cause facial swelling, extreme fatigue, headaches and joint pain.

"Selena has been going full throttle the past few years and her lupus is really catching up with her right now," said a source.

"She knows that she needs to take some time to address the disease and look after herself better if she wants to live a full and healthy life,” the source added.

The “Come & Get It” singer has axed 13 shows from the Asian and Australian leg of her tour.