Dealing With Lupus

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Lupus and Your World

Receiving a diagnosis of lupus is likely to be very upsetting. You may feel a swirl of emotions - from fear and anxiety to anger and sadness. That's all normal. Remember that many others have been through what you're going through, so reaching out now to a support group, whether online or in person, can help. Be sure to call on your loved ones to add their support too:

• Lupus Foundation of America: Message Boards
• RevolutionHealth.com: Emotional Support - Online Discussion Groups for Lupus

Here are some tips on how to talk to your family about your disease:

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Dealing with lupus on a day-to-day basis can be difficult, especially during times when you find your "flares" hard to manage. Make sure to reach out to friends and family and all of the resources that are out there to help you. Remember: You are not alone:

• MDJunction.com: Lupus Support Group
• Dailystrength.org: Lupus Support Group
• Lupus Foundation of America: Message Boards

Health-care Providers Who Can Help

The types of health-care providers who may be involved in your lupus treatment include:

• Rheumatologist, a doctor who specializes in the diseases of joints and muscles
• Clinical immunologist, a doctor who treats immune system disorders
• Nephrologist, a doctor who treats kidney diseases
• Hematologist, a doctor who treats blood disorders
• Dermatologist, a doctor who treats skin problems and diseases
• Neurologist, a doctor who treats problems with the nervous system
• Psychologist  
• Occupational Therapist
• Social Worker

Resources to Find Doctors

To Find a Rheumatologist

American College of Rheumatology: Geographic Membership Directory

To Find a Dermatologist

American Academy of Dermatology