Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause various symptoms, including fever, inflammation, and body aches. A variety of specialists can help people with lupus manage their condition.
Family doctors usually refer people with lupus to a rheumatologist. These specialists can help people prevent and manage lupus flare-ups and reduce the risk of developing other complications relating to this illness, such as organ damage.
However, depending on the symptoms someone with lupus develops, a wider selection of specialists can advise on managing the condition and dealing with specific symptoms when they occur.
This article reviews what specialists treat lupus, the symptoms this condition can cause, how healthcare professionals diagnose it, and the available treatment options.
If a doctor suspects a person has lupus, they
Rheumatologists may work alongside other clinical immunologists who specialize in disorders affecting the immune system, including lupus.
Symptoms
Lupus can cause various symptoms,
- fever
- fatigue
- arthritis
- hair loss
- headache
- dizziness
- seizures
- painless sores in the mouth and nose
- stomach pain
- skin rashes
- swollen glands
- swelling around the eyes or in the legs
Lupus can also cause inflammation in several body areas, leading to heart, lung, or kidney problems.
It can be challenging to diagnose lupus, as many of its symptoms are similar to other health conditions.
If a doctor suspects a person may have lupus, they will first review their family and medical history and perform several tests,
- a complete physical exam and labs, looking for rashes and other symptoms of lupus
- a skin or kidney biopsy to find any signs of autoimmune diseases or autoantibodies of lupus
- an antinuclear antibody test looking for the presence of autoantibodies of lupus
Once the rheumatologist has the test results, they will use them to make a diagnosis and rule out other potential conditions. If they determine a person has lupus, they will recommend the appropriate treatment according to the symptoms.
The main goal of the treatment that a rheumatologist recommends is to prevent lupus flares, reduce the risk of organ damage and other complications, and treat lupus symptoms when they occur. These treatments
A rheumatologist is not the only specialist who treats lupus. Family doctors may refer a person with the condition to other specialists who treat specific symptoms. This
- dermatologists, who treat skin, nails, and hair conditions
- endocrinologists, who manage hormonal issues and other problems relating to the glands
- nephrologists, who treat kidney complications
- neurologists, who specialize in spine, nerves, and brain conditions
- cardiologists, if a person with lupus develops heart inflammation or other cardiovascular symptoms
- hematologists, who treat blood disorders
- mental health professionals, when someone develops depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions
- pulmonologists, who deal with lung complications
- ophthalmologists, who are eye care professionals
- oral and dental medicine specialists who treat dental issues
Currently,
The medications for treating lupus aim to reduce immune system activity, inflammation, and swelling and prevent damage to organs and joints.
Some medications a doctor may prescribe for lupus
- corticosteroid tablets, injections, or topical creams, such as prednisone
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve), or topical NSAIDs such as Voltaren
- antimalarial medications, including hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)
- immunosuppressive drugs to reduce immune system activity, including:
- biologics, such as belimumab (Benlysta)
- newer approved medications, including voclosporin (Lupkynis) for lupus nephritis and anifrolumab (Saphenelo) for skin
- Rituximab
- cyclophosphamide
- intravenous gammaglobulin
Lupus symptoms
Dealing with lupus or other chronic diseases can be challenging and can significantly affect a person’s mental health, causing stress both at home and in the workplace. If someone develops mental health symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, they need to speak with a doctor. Doctors
The Lupus Foundation of America provides information and support and organizes local events people can attend to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Lupus is an autoimmune chronic condition that can cause several symptoms, including swelling and joint pain. Currently, there is no cure for lupus. However, several medications can help manage symptoms, reducing the risk of flare-ups and damage to joints and internal organs.
Diagnosing lupus is challenging and may take time, as its symptoms are similar to many other health conditions. A rheumatologist may perform an antinuclear antibody test, a physical test, and a skin or kidney biopsy to diagnose the condition. The results of these tests, alongside a full review of a person’s medical and family history, can help diagnose lupus.