Lupus isn’t common, affecting less than 1% of people in the United States, but the symptoms caused by this autoimmune disease can be debilitating. The experienced team at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC in Manchester and Middletown, Connecticut, specialize in the diagnosis and management of lupus. For answers to your questions and relief from your lupus symptoms, call the nearest office or schedule an appointment online today.
request an appointmentWhat is lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which your body’s immune system attacks various organs or tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. Common areas of the body affected include the joints, kidneys, heart, skin, and even your brain.
Lupus may be an inherited gene that gets “turned on” through various triggers, such as sunlight, infections, or medications. You may be at risk of developing lupus if it runs in your family.
Currently, there’s no cure for lupus, but the specialists at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC can provide treatments to ease your symptoms.
What are the symptoms of lupus?
Lupus symptoms vary from person to person and each case is different, which is why it can be difficult to diagnose. Common symptoms of lupus include:
- Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
- A butterfly-shaped rash on your face that spreads over your cheeks and nose
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
You may also experience memory loss and confusion.
If you’re experiencing extreme fatigue, joint pain, and fever, contact the Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC team for an evaluation.
How is lupus diagnosed?
No single test can diagnose lupus. Your specialist at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC conducts a comprehensive examination to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Your exam may include:
- Review of your symptoms
- Review of your family and medical history
- Physical exam
- Blood work
- Urinalysis
Depending on the organs affected, your specialist may recommend diagnostic imaging such as an X-ray or echocardiogram.
What are the treatments for lupus?
Your rheumatologist at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC creates an individualized treatment plan to help manage your lupus symptoms. Your treatment may depend on the body systems affected, as well as the severity of your symptoms.
Treatment options for lupus include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroids
- Immunosuppressants
- Biologics
Your doctor may also recommend antimalarial drugs, which are prescribed to help decrease lupus flare-ups.
Lupus can lead to debilitating symptoms, but the team at Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC can provide you with the most effective treatments to improve your quality of life. To learn more, schedule an appointment online or by phone today.