Accessibility Tools

Rheumatologists in Houston, TX, Can Help You Manage Your Lupus Symptoms

Lupus is an inflammatory condition that causes the body’s immune system to inadvertently attack and damage healthy tissues and organs. Experts believe some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing lupus. Also, a number of factors are thought to play a role in triggering an inappropriate immune response, such as certain viruses, chemicals in the environment, hormones and medications. However, the precise causes of lupus are unknown.

The varied signs of lupus

Because lupus can affect virtually any part of the body, its symptoms can vary widely. Some of the more common lupus symptoms include:

  • Overwhelming fatigue
  • Joint pain, swelling and stiffness (arthritis)
  • Fluid retention/edema
  • Fever
  • Chest pain when breathing deeply (pleurisy)
  • A butterfly-shaped skin rash across the cheeks and nose (malar rash)
  • Red, scaly skin patches on the torso, arms and legs
  • Hair loss
  • Mouth and nose sores
  • Photosensitivity
  • Pale or purple fingers or toes (Raynaud’s syndrome)
  • Seizures

Managing lupus symptoms

If you’ve been diagnosed with lupus or are experiencing symptoms, you can confidently entrust your care to the rheumatologists at Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine in Houston, Texas. Utilizing the standard evaluation process created by the American College of Rheumatology, we can confirm or rule out a lupus diagnosis, then work with you to develop a customized plan to help you manage your discomfort. Based on your specific symptoms, we may recommend:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain, swelling or fever
  • Antimalarial drugs to address joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes or mouth sores
  • Corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to inhibit the immune cells that cause certain lupus symptoms
  • Biologics to reduce joint pain and inflammation

We’ll also encourage you to become an active participant in the management of your lupus symptoms. Some ways to do so managing stress, receiving preventive heart care, staying up-to-date with immunizations, and protecting your skin from sun exposure.

If you’d like to meet with a rheumatologist at Advanced Orthopaedics to explore your options for managing your lupus symptoms, contact us to request an appointment at our state-of-the-art orthopedic institute in Houston, TX.