Best Lupus Doctors in Lucknow

Types/Stages of Lupus

There are several types of lupus, including:

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): This is the most common and severe type, affecting multiple organs like joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, or brain.

• Cutaneous Lupus: This primarily affects the skin and can manifest as rashes, sores, or lesions, but does not affect internal organs.

• Drug-induced Lupus: This type occurs when certain medications lead to symptoms resembling SLE. Symptoms typically resolve once the medication is discontinued.

• Neonatal Lupus: A rare form that affects newborns due to certain lupus antibodies from the mother impacting the baby’s heart, skin, and blood.

Symptoms of Lupus

People with lupus may experience the following symptoms:

• Joint pain and swelling, especially in small joints of hands and feet.

• Fatigue and weakness.

• A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, which can worsen with sun exposure.

• Chest pain when breathing deeply

• Other symptoms include hair loss, sensitivity to sunlight, mouth or nose sores, swollen lymph nodes, and fever.

Tests to Diagnose Lupus

To diagnose lupus, the doctors for systemic lupus erythematosus at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow, use the following tests:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: This involves thoroughly investigating symptoms, their onset, and any family history of autoimmune diseases.

• Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test: A positive ANA test is a key indicator of lupus.

• Complete Blood Count: Lupus can cause abnormalities such as anaemia (low red blood cells), leukopenia (low white blood cells), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets).

• Kidney and Liver Function Tests: These tests assess the function of the kidneys and liver, as lupus can affect these organs, particularly causing inflammation or damage in the kidneys (lupus nephritis).

• Urine Tests: These tests are used to detect the presence of proteinuria (protein in the urine) or haematuria (red blood cells in the urine), which can indicate kidney involvement.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Lupus at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow

The best doctors for lupus treatment at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow, offer various treatments for lupus, such as:

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids are prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation. Antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and methotrexate are used to suppress an overactive immune system and reduce the severity of lupus symptoms.

• Biologics: Biologics like belimumab specifically target the immune system and reduce inflammation caused by lupus.

• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address complications of lupus, such as kidney damage requiring a transplant.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Includes sun protection to prevent UV-triggered flares, a healthy diet to support overall health, and regular exercise for joint flexibility and fitness.