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Preparing for your appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or primary care provider. Because the symptoms of lupus can mimic so many other health problems, you may need patience while waiting for a diagnosis. Your doctor must rule out a number of other illnesses before diagnosing lupus.

Here's some information to help you prepare for your first appointment, and what to expect from your doctor.

What you can do

• Write down your symptoms, including when you first noticed them and how often they occur.
• Write down key personal information, including any recent changes or major stressors in your life.
• Make a list of your key medical information, including any other conditions for which you're being treated and the names of any medications, vitamins or supplements you're taking. Your doctor will also want to know if you have any family history of lupus or other autoimmune disorders.
• Take a family member or friend along, if possible. Sometimes it can be difficult to soak up all the information provided to you during an appointment. Someone who accompanies you may remember something that you missed or forgot.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor. Creating your list of questions in advance can help you make the most of your time with your doctor.

For lupus, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What are the possible causes of my symptoms or condition?
• What tests do you recommend?
• If these tests don't pinpoint the cause of my symptoms, what additional tests might I need?
• Are there any treatments or lifestyle changes that might help my symptoms now?
• Do I need to follow any restrictions while we're seeking a diagnosis?
• Should I see a specialist?

In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment at any time that you don't understand something.

What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may reserve time to go over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask:

• What are your symptoms? What part of your body is affected?
• When did you first notice these symptoms?
• Have your symptoms changed over time?
• Do your symptoms seem to come and go?
• Have you noticed anything that seems to trigger your symptoms?
• Do your symptoms include extreme fatigue?
• Have you had pain, stiffness or swelling in your joints?
• Does sun exposure cause you to develop skin rashes?
• Do your fingers or toes turn cold, pale or purple from cold or stress?
• Do your symptoms include chest pain with deep breathing?
• Have you experienced shortness of breath?
• Have you had an unexplained fever?
• Do your symptoms include any problems with memory or concentration?
• How often do you feel anxious or depressed?
• How much do your symptoms limit your ability to function at school, work or in personal relationships?
• Have you been diagnosed with any other medical conditions?
• Are you taking any medications, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs as well as vitamins and supplements?
• Have any first-degree relatives — such as a parent or sibling — had lupus or another autoimmune disease?
• Are you pregnant or do you plan to become pregnant?

What you can do in the meantime
While you're waiting for your appointment, get as much rest as your body seems to need and limit activities that wear you out. Try to reduce stress and schedule time only on activities that you enjoy and that help you manage stress. You may find that relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation help improve your symptoms and your ability to cope.

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