Our individually tailored treatment plans target your unique symptoms and disease process for effective relief. Contact ArthritisCARE and make an appointment with one of our friendly Rheumatologists for expert lupus treatment in Brisbane.
What is SLE?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or just “lupus” for short, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect any part of the body. SLE is the most common form of lupus. Other types include:
- Discoid lupus
- Subacute cutaneous lupus
- Drug-induced lupus
- Neonatal Lupus
It is a condition in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation, skin rashes, and joint and muscle pain. Lupus generally affects the skin or joints and, in some cases, may impact people’s lungs, kidneys, blood vessels, brain, and nervous system.
SLE occurs when your immune system attacks healthy tissue, resulting in joint and muscle pain, skin rashes, sensitivity to sun exposure, and sometimes issues with your blood vessels and a low count of red blood cells.
What causes SLE?
The exact cause of SLE is unknown. However, like other autoimmune diseases, it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. These factors trigger your immune system’s attack, resulting in lupus.
What are the signs and symptoms of SLE?
The signs and symptoms of SLE can vary greatly from person to person and may come and go. Even though this autoimmune condition can affect many different parts of a person’s body, the majority only experience symptoms in a few.
Some of the most common symptoms of lupus are:
- Joint pain or swelling, especially in your hands and feet
- Skin rashes in the shape of a butterfly over the cheeks and nose
- Sensitivity to the sun
- Sores in your mouth and/or nose
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Anaemia (low red blood cells)
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
Experience Personalised Rheumatology Care That Puts Your Needs First
How is lupus diagnosed?
Diagnosing SLE can be challenging because the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions. Our team of specialists at ArthritisCARE is skilled and knowledgeable in identifying and differentiating between different autoimmune conditions. Unfortunately, there is no single test to diagnose lupus, so we use a clinical examination, an assessment of your symptoms, and various blood tests or scans.
What can I expect after a lupus diagnosis?
After a diagnosis of SLE, our team will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan based on your symptoms and medical history. Treatment may include lupus medications to reduce inflammation and control symptoms, as well as lifestyle changes to manage the condition.
With close follow-up, careful management, and the right treatment, people with lupus that is generally milder can have an active and full life. You may experience “flare-ups” at different times, where you will experience worsening symptoms. At this point in time, we don’t know the exact cause of the flare-ups; however, possible triggers are stress, sun exposure, infections, and pregnancy.
Some people will have more severe forms of lupus, which can affect their organs and, if left untreated, result in life-threatening problems. This is why it is vital to seek specialist help for an accurate and early diagnosis.
What options are there for lupus treatment in Brisbane?
Currently, there is no cure for lupus. However, with the right treatment, people with lupus can manage symptoms and live a long and healthy life.
Our Rheumatologists tailor treatment plans to manage lupus and improve your quality of life. We can prescribe medications that have proven extremely helpful, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and immunosuppressants.
We also recommend lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction, to help improve your overall health and reduce the severity of symptoms.
How much does it cost for lupus treatment in Brisbane?
At ArthritisCARE, the cost of a consultation with a Rheumatologist varies based on your individual requirements. For detailed information and current pricing, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions section on our website.
Why choose ArthritisCARE for your lupus treatment in Brisbane?
At ArthritisCARE, we empathise with the significant impact lupus can have on your daily life. Our team specialises in managing and treating people with lupus and other diseases of the immune system to help manage their disease and improve their quality of life. We offer personalised treatment plans, state-of-the-art facilities, and the latest in therapy.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you manage lupus.
Meet Dr. Peter Landsberg
The ArthritisCARE team of rheumatoid specialists in Brisbane has many years of experience and offers you a choice of both male and female Rheumatologists in Brisbane. Our goal is to ensure that you feel comfortable working with us so that we can collaboratively treat your condition and significantly improve the way you feel. Each and every day.
Avoid unnecessary pain and discomfort. Contact us to set up an appointment for a comprehensive, expert medical review.
How to contact us
Find a SLE specialist near me:
- 24 Railway Terrace (Corner of Pound Street) Dutton Park QLD 4102
- (07) 3255 1066
- (07) 3255 1533
- admin@arthritiscare.com.au
-
Monday to Friday: 8.00 am – 4.00 pm
Sat, Sun & Public Holidays: Closed
FAQs
There are many reputable clinics that provide specialised lupus treatment. It’s important to choose somewhere that has experienced Rheumatologists and support staff who can provide comprehensive care and personalised treatment options, like our professional and friendly team at ArthritisCARE in Brisbane.
While a general practitioner can diagnose lupus, it’s recommended to seek care from a specialist Rheumatologist who has specific expertise in treating lupus. We have the skills and knowledge to help those with lupus find a treatment plan that works for them.
While lupus can affect anyone, it is much more common in women and often develops during the childbearing years. It is believed that hormones acting on the immune system can trigger it to attack healthy tissues, especially progesterone.
Most people find that lupus does not affect their fertility. However, it is recommended that women wait until their disease is stable before trying to fall pregnant. Women are also classified as “high-risk” during pregnancy, as they may have a higher risk of complications.
The first signs of lupus can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain or swelling, skin rashes, or fever. These symptoms may come and go over time, so it can take some time to diagnose lupus.
The life expectancy of a person with lupus depends on various factors, such as the severity of their symptoms and the presence of other health conditions. With proper management and treatment, many people with lupus are able to live a full and active life.
Lupus is a serious autoimmune disease that can cause significant health complications if left untreated. However, with proper management and treatment, many people with lupus are able to manage their symptoms and lead normal life.
More Learnings about Lupus here:
Arthritis Australia’s Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus) Resources
https://arthritisaustralia.com.au/types-of-arthritis/lupus-systemic-lupus-erythematosus/
Information Sheet: Information Sheet: Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)by Arthritis Australia
https://arthritisaustralia.com.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArthAus_SystemicLupusErythematosus_1805.pdf
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Get You Back to the Activities You Love
If you’re suffering from joint pain, stiffness, or other symptoms related to arthritis, lupus, or other rheumatic conditions, we are here to help. Our team of experienced Rheumatologists is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatment options that can help alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life.
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