Best Lupus Doctors in Visakhapatnam

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks its healthy tissues and organs, causing inflammation and damage. The exact cause of lupus is unknown, but it is believed to arise from a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental factors. The common triggers that may cause the immune system to malfunction and lead to lupus include sunlight exposure, infections, certain medications, hormones, cigarette smoke, silica, mercury, certain viruses, ultraviolet light, and stress.

In Vizag, Apollo Hospitals has made significant advancements in delivering high-quality care for patients with lupus. With a team of experienced doctors for lupus treatment and specialists in systemic lupus erythematosus on board, Apollo Hospitals has been successfully diagnosing and treating lupus among Vizag residents.

Types/Stages of Lupus

There are four main types of lupus:

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: This is the most common and severe type of lupus, affecting multiple organs and systems in the body, including joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, and blood vessels.

• Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: This type of lupus specifically affects the skin, causing rashes, lesions, and inflammation.

• Drug-induced Lupus: This form of lupus is triggered by certain medications. The symptoms are similar to SLE but often resolve once the medication is discontinued.

• Neonatal Lupus: This rare form of lupus occurs when a developing baby is exposed to lupus antibodies in the womb.

Symptoms of Lupus

Symptoms of lupus can vary among individuals, but some of the most common ones include:

• Joint pain and swelling

• Fatigue and weakness

• Skin rashes, especially the distinct butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose

• Chest pain, particularly when breathing deeply

• Hair loss

• Sensitivity to sunlight

• Mouth or nose sores

• Swollen lymph nodes, joints, or areas around the eyes

Tests to Diagnose Lupus

At Apollo Hospitals in Vizag, the doctors for systemic lupus erythematosus use a combination of tests to diagnose the condition. These include:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Doctors evaluate symptoms, their onset, and inquire about any family history of autoimmune diseases.

• Antinuclear Antibody Test: This blood test is a key indicator of lupus, detecting the presence of antibodies that target the nucleus of cells.

• Kidney and Liver Function Tests: These tests help determine if lupus is affecting these organs.

• Biopsy: Skin or kidney tissue samples may be examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis of lupus.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Lupus at Apollo Hospitals, Vizag

The best doctors for lupus treatment at Apollo Hospitals in Vizag offer a range of treatment options for the condition:

• Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms like joint pain and fever.

• Antimalarial Drugs: Hydroxychloroquine is commonly used to treat skin rashes, joint pain, and mouth sores and may prevent flares.

• Corticosteroids: Prednisone is prescribed to quickly reduce inflammation, especially for severe organ involvement.

• Immunosuppressant Drugs: Medications like azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, cyclophosphamide, and methotrexate are used to suppress the overactive immune response.

• Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes like sun protection, a healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and getting recommended vaccinations are also important.