Lupus

At least 1.5 million Americans have lupus today. Although a lupus diagnosis may seem scary, Behnam Khaleghi, MD, the board-certified lupus specialist at Pacific Rheumatology Center, is here to help you manage your disease using the most innovative and advanced treatments. At two state-of-the-art practice locations in Tustin and Laguna Hills, California, Behnam Khaleghi, MD, and the dedicated team offer compassionate, personalized support. If you have lupus symptoms or are struggling with the disease effects, call the office near you or click the online appointment feature now.

What is lupus?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease. It happens when your immune system — which is supposed to protect you from disease and infections — attacks your body. 

Lupus causes inflammation. In turn, the inflammation can cause damage to your organs and other tissues in your body. 

Lupus causes flare-ups. It’s common to have symptoms for days or weeks, followed by symptom-free periods. 

I am tired all the time. Could it be lupus? 

Chronic fatigue is the most common symptom for about 9 in 10 people with the disease. So, constant tiredness could be lupus. Some other common lupus symptoms are:

• Muscle pain
• Sore joints
• Foot and eye swelling
• Low-grade fevers
• Skin rashes (often a butterfly-shaped face rash)

The American College of Physicians calls lupus “the great imitator” for a reason. These symptoms also happen with many other diseases. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, and Lyme disease.

At Pacific Rheumatology Center, the team has decades of experience diagnosing lupus and differentiating it from other diseases. The team takes a comprehensive approach to ensure an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.  

What causes lupus?

Experts are still looking for the cause of lupus. Animal studies show that female hormone levels probably contribute. This fact makes sense, as 90% of people with lupus are women. 

Genetics and environment also likely play a role. Experts believe these factors, along with female hormones, combine to raise the risk of lupus. 

How does the doctor treat lupus? 

There’s no cure for lupus; however, the Pacific Rheumatology Center team offers the most advanced lupus treatments. You get personalized lupus management with a treatment plan designed by Orange County’s foremost lupus specialists. 

Certain things, like sun exposure and mental stress, may trigger your lupus flares. The team helps you manage lifestyle factors to avoid flare-ups. 

In addition, the team creates a medication treatment plan tailored to your symptoms. Many patients experience lupus relief using biological medications like Benlysta®. 

Regenerative medicine is another leading-edge option. It involves using natural substances, like stem cells, to boost healing. 

Other integrative therapies, such as supplements, intravenous (IV) therapy, and an anti-inflammatory diet, can support treatment. 

Are you having a frustrating lupus flare and need solutions? Call the nearest Pacific Rheumatology Center office or click the online scheduling feature today.