Understanding lupus’ many symptoms, from mild to severe

By Michael Roizen, M.D., and Mehmet Oz, M.D. King Features Syndicate, Inc.

Q: I have two friends who have lupus, and it seems like they have two different diseases. One is having a lot of aches and Drs. Oz pain, and the other seems & Roizen to just be losing it—tired Advice all the time, confused, moody. Have they been diagnosed correctly?—Sonia J., Ocala, Florida

A: SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) is the most common form of lupus, which is an autoimmune disease. As you have discovered with your two friends’ experiences, SLE can present with a diverse array of symptoms; they can vary from mild to severe and can mimic other conditions. That’s why lupus is sometimes hard to diagnose.

Diagnosis: For reliable diagnosis and treatment, it’s important to go to a rheumatologist who specializes in SLE. He or she uses blood tests that look for immunological involvement (certain antibodies) and the presence of clinical symptoms, such as fatigue, cognitive changes and psychological disruption, as well as skin eruptions and kidney, eye, muscle, joint, gastro, cardiac, endocrine or hematological problems.

SLE affects up to 12 women for every man. Women ages 15 to 44 are at greatest risk.

Treatment: After examination and diagnosis by a rheumatologist, it’s time to determine the best course of treatment.

n Lifestyle choices can go a long way in helping reduce the impact of lupus on muscle, bones and organ systems. The first step is to maintain a healthy weight; eat up to nine servings daily of produce; ditch red and processed meat, highly processed foods and added sugars and syrups. Regular physical exercise, however possible, is essential. The rheumatologist will help determine the best routine.

As for medical treatments, mild symptoms may be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories.

Hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug, often is used initially to treat lupus-related mouth sores and skin lesions. When internal organs are affected, options include immunosuppressive drugs, such as methotrexate; steroids; and the monoclonal antibody belimumab. Approved in 2011, it’s the first new medication for lupus in more than 50 years.

Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen at youdocsdaily@ sharecare.com.

(c) 2017 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D.