Lupus suspected - what to expect from hospital appointment?

[Issy42]

My gp has referred me to rheumatologist with suspected lupus after high ESR and ANA and Raynaud's.

Can anyone tell me what to expect at the appointment?

I see a rheumatologist, not for lupus. My first appointment, I saw the consultant (ask to see the consultant for first appointment), consisted of medical history, current symptoms, for lupus you will probably have an examination of joints and skin and probably urine test if lupus is suspected. Bloods will be taken for more in depth testing. You should be given a follow up appointment very soon after to discuss results. If you are found to have lupus, medication will be started. You will probably be given an appointment with a specialist nurse for counselling and information on medication. I received all of this. They might refer you to a urologist as lupus is systemic and can effect the kidneys. Good luck, hope it goes well.

Thanks for taking the time to respond ClaraRenee - nice to have an answer from some who's been through a similar experience. Blood tests were fine for kidneys, thyroid, full blood count etc so if I have got lupus hopefully I've caught it early. Google can be a bad thing in these circumstances though and scared me a little about what could happen if I'm one of the unlucky ones, especially as I'm a single mum to a 15-month old.

I hope you have your condition under control.

Its sound as though you could have lupus, but there are many auto-immune conditions. Lupus can be well controlled especially if caught early. I have a type of auto-immune arthritis which is now under control. Rheumatology consultants are very well experienced but ask to see the consultant. Never google it as it can be scary. Good luck, hope it goes well.

rheumatologists are all involved with immunology. Are you up north or southern

Thanks Clara.

Alypaly - I'm in the midlands.