Understanding Your Lupus Care: Specialists and Your Healthcare Team
Remember, your lupus treatment may differ from others because the disease manifests uniquely in each person.
Some lupus patients may have a variety of different specialists involved in their care, such as:
Rheumatologist – Typically, lupus is treated by rheumatologists who are internists or pediatricians (or both) that specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones, such as lupus.
Neurologist – A neurologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing and treating diseases of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and muscles.
Nephrologist – A Nephrologist can help you find the right treatment for issues relating to kidneys and kidney function, such as lupus nephritis.
Dermatologist – A Dermatologist has the expertise needed to create a treatment plan that can help manage skin, hair and nail problems caused by lupus.
Gastroenterologist – Lupus can cause digestive problems, there are many different medicines that can treat them. A specialist called a gastroenterologist can work with your rheumatologist to find a treatment plan that works for you.
Cardiologist – A cardiologist specializes in heart issues such as lupus myocarditis and lupus pericarditis.
Pulmonologist – A Pulmonologist specializes in lung issues, such as pleurisy due to lupus.
Endocrinologist – An Endocrinologist specializes in issues relating to thyroid, adrenal function, or other endocrine issues.
Hematologist – Should lupus involve any issues relating to blood count a Hematologist will be part of your healthcare team.
Physiotherapist – Depending on your specific symptoms, you may see a physical therapist, physiotherapist or occupational therapist to help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
Nutritionist – A nutritionist teaches others about general nutrition, food, and how what they eat affects their health. Nutritionists can also offer nutritional guidance to people managing medical conditions, such as lupus.
Perinatologist – If you choose to try to become pregnant with lupus, you may have a perinatologist involved in your care. This is a doctor who specializes in high-risk pregnancies.
Naturopath – The treatment of lupus with Naturopathic medicine involves evaluation of the whole body, including how it is affected by inflammation. Naturopathic treatment of lupus may involve the use of acupuncture, homeopathy, lifestyle and stress counselling, and herbal therapies to address immune system over-activation.
Ophthalmologist – An ophthalmologist is responsible for ensuring that any form of ocular involvement is treated appropriately as Any eye and periorbital structure might be affected by lupus.
Urologist – Urologists are doctors that specialize in the treatment of diseases of the urinary tract in both women and men. Urologists may also help men manage issues with their reproductive system.
For more information on treatment plans please speak with your healthcare team.