A rheumatologist or internist with a specialization in lupus should coordinate your care, says Dr. Schur. Once you're in the care of a specialist, you're likely to be put on a program that includes medication and careful observation. Different women require different medications, says Dr. Schur. Most are treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antimalarial drugs, corticosteroids or drugs that suppress the immune system. Lupus can be monitored through kidney function tests, x-rays, MRIs, ultrasound and EKGs.
Specialists can also observe lupus through exercise tolerance tests.
Get a second opinion. If you have any doubts about your diagnosis or treatment, get a second opinion, says Dr. Schur. And if the two opinions conflict, get a third, he says. Join a support group. Some women find such groups helpful, says Dr. Petri.