Welcome to the Lupus Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group in Dubai, where we specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of lupus, including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Our dedicated team of experts is committed to providing you with the highest standard of care to manage this complex autoimmune disease. With advanced medical facilities and a patient-centered approach, we are here to support you on your journey to better health and improved quality of life.
What is Lupus?
In the Lupus Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group, we understand the challenges posed by lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. This condition can cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body. There are several types of lupus, with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) being the most common and severe form.
Types of Lupus
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Affects multiple organs and systems, including joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood vessels.
- Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE): Affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches, often on the face and scalp.
- Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (SCLE): Causes skin sores on parts of the body exposed to sunlight.
- Drug-Induced Lupus: Caused by certain medications and usually resolves once the medication is stopped.
- Neonatal Lupus: A rare condition affecting newborns, caused by antibodies from the mother affecting the baby.
Lupus Treatment Options
Our Lupus Clinic offers a wide range of advanced procedures to manage lupus and its symptoms:
- Medication Management: We provide a tailored medication regimen to control inflammation, suppress the immune system, and manage symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Our physical therapists design exercise programs to improve mobility, strength, and overall well-being.
- Plasmapheresis: A procedure to remove and replace the plasma from your blood to reduce the number of antibodies attacking your body.
- Biologic Therapies: Advanced treatments using biologic agents to target specific parts of the immune system involved in lupus.
- Nutritional and Lifestyle Counseling: Guidance on diet, stress management, and lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Lupus Symptoms
Recognizing early Lupus Symptoms and seeking medical advice is crucial for effective management. Lupus can present with a variety of symptoms, often mimicking other conditions, making it challenging to diagnose. Common symptoms include:
- Joint Pain and Swelling: Persistent pain and swelling in the joints, often accompanied by morning stiffness.
- Skin Rashes: The characteristic butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, along with other rashes elsewhere on the body.
- Fatigue: Extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
- Fever: Low-grade fevers without any apparent cause.
- Organ Involvement: Symptoms related to the involvement of kidneys, heart, lungs, or other organs.
Accurate and Early Lupus Diagnosis
Accurate and early diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to your needs. At our Lupus Clinic, we employ a comprehensive diagnostic approach to accurately identify lupus. Our diagnostic process includes:
- Medical History: A thorough review of your medical history and symptoms to understand the extent and impact of your condition.
- Physical Examination: Detailed physical examination to assess symptoms and rule out other conditions.
- Blood Tests: Tests to detect specific antibodies, inflammation markers, and organ function.
- Imaging Tests: Advanced imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRI to assess organ involvement and joint damage.
Personalized Lupus Recovery Process
Recovery from lupus involves a multifaceted approach tailored to your individual condition and lifestyle. Our recovery plans include:
- Rehabilitation Programs: Customized physical therapy programs designed to restore strength, flexibility, and function.
- Ongoing Medication Management: Continuous monitoring and adjustment of medications to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
- Regular Monitoring and Follow-Up: Frequent follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
- Support and Education: Comprehensive support and education to help you understand your condition, manage your symptoms, and make informed decisions about your health.