If you’re currently looking for a Houston TX Rheumatologist Lupus Specialist, then you’ll definitely be interested in the services of Advanced Rheumatology of Houston has to offer. Don’t take the risk of waiting for your symptoms to clear up. This could cause conditions to worsen and even irreversible damage.

Our team focuses on treating a wide range of rheumatologic conditions, including lupus. We diagnose and treat these types of conditions. Moreover, our clinic takes part in several research studies aimed at helping patients and doctors better manage the disease. Those with specific cases can take part in research studies, which will help improve treatment options for the illnesses.

What is Lupus?

Systematic lupus erythematosus, or simply lupus, is a chronic disease that affects several parts of the body. Moreover, lupus can cause inflammation in areas of the body, such as skin, joints, and organs. Lupus also varies in the way it affects every single patient. For example, flares are a common symptom, although they vary case by case. Moreover, when the disease is being minimally active, it is referred to as remission.

Generally speaking, lupus affects organs like kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs. Other common symptoms for lupus are weight loss, fever, and fatigue. Additionally, please note that there are other types of symptoms, as well. Here’s a list of common lupus symptoms:

• Pain and swelling in joints
• Headaches
• Swelling in areas such as the legs, hands, and feet
• Hair loss
• Fingers turning blue or white
• Anemia
• Mouth or nose sores

Thanks to the great advancements in the medical field, patients with lupus can still live a comfortable and peaceful life. The exact cause for lupus remains unknown. Lupus is, in fact, an autoimmune disease, meaning that it causes the patient’s own immune system to attack healthy tissues.

In lupus cases, the immune system works against healthy tissue. For that and other reasons, lupus is considered a very serious condition, with severe levels of inflammation definitely possible.

About Our Houston TX Rheumatologist Lupus Specialist

With various types of symptoms to look out for, it’s no wonder why lupus can be difficult to diagnose. Diagnosing the disease can be done through blood tests. Moreover, there are specific blood tests that are more effective than others, such as the ASA. Our very own Dr. Brionez has over ten years in the medical field, in which she has spent much of the time working with many patients that suffer from this disease.

Dr. Brionez completed her Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences from Texas A&M University. She then completed her Doctor of Medicine during her time at Baylor College of Medicine. Her fellowship in Rheumatology was completed at the University of Texas Health Science Center. In 2007 and 2009, Dr. Brionez became board-certified in internal disease and rheumatology, in that order. Since then, Dr. Brionez has spent most of her time in the field practicing.

Diagnosing Lupus

Blood tests can diagnose lupus. With several methods of alleviating symptoms, patients diagnosed with lupus now know that they have tons of options to live a comfortable life. Lupus is a chronic disease, meaning that there still is no cure for it.

Fortunately, a majority of lupus cases can be controlled through medication and the right care plan. Modern medical awareness and advances have made living with lupus much more comfortable and manageable. So while lupus may still be a severe disease, you don’t have to face it alone. With our Houston TX Rheumatologist Lupus Specialist, by helping you every step of the way, you’ll be able to live a normal life.

Symptoms

Lupus doesn’t discriminate against any type of organ. Additionally, it has a wide range of signs and symptoms. These symptoms can be wide-ranging, and there may be some symptoms that appear at different times. Here are some common symptoms that those diagnosed with lupus may experience during the timespan of the illness:

• Extreme fatigue (tiredness)
• Headaches
• Painful or swollen joints
• Fever
• Anemia
• Swelling in feet, legs, hands, and/or eyes
• Pain in chest on deep breathing
• A butterfly-shaped rash across cheeks and nose
• Sun or light-sensitivity
• Hair loss
• Abnormal blood clotting
• Fingers turning white and/or blue when cold
• Mouth or nose ulcers

Symptoms listed above may be shared with other illnesses. As a matter of fact, lupus is sometimes called “the great imitator” because its symptoms can be similar to rheumatoid arthritis, blood disorders, fibromyalgia, diabetes, thyroid problems, Lyme disease, along with lung, muscle, heart, and bone diseases.

Keep in mind that you’re a big part of the diagnosing process. You should be aware of what your body wants, ask questions, and stay involved with the lupus community.

Treatment

Treating lupus is a continuous process. It requires constant planning and communication. While there still isn’t a cure for lupus, there’s still lots you can do to control the condition and improve your quality of life. One way of staying on top of the disease is with information. Staying informed will increase your chances of living a comfortable life. The more you know, the more you’ll be able to assist the care team you’re working with to find the right treatment plan for you.

Lupus is an unpredictable disease, and it can seem very overwhelming at times, especially when you’re also navigating the maze-like health care system. As in all aspects of life, you should always aim to make decisions that will positively affect your health. A lupus diagnosis may sound devastating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Houston TX Rheumatologist Lupus Specialist is here to assist by listening, provide caring support, and answer your questions.

Moreover, we offer trustworthy, reliable, and high-quality resources that provide assistance and will help you lead a comfortable and long life.

Research Studies

We perform and review research studies in order to produce information and programs that help both patients and doctors alike. The goal is simple. We’re looking for ways to assist both patients and doctors better manage the diseases. If you’re a patient being treated for lupus, you could be eligible to take part in a research study.

Treating Lupus

If you’re looking for a Houston TX Rheumatologist Lupus Specialist, you should definitely contact the experts here at Advanced Rheumatology of Houston. We’re more than ready to help you find the most appropriate plan for you. You can reach our friendly representatives by calling (281) 766-7886. You can also find more information on our services and research studies webpages. Contact our Houston TX Rheumatologist Lupus Specialist today.

 

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