go see a doctor. he or she will talk to you and take a history of your health problems. many people have lupus for a long time before they find out they have it. it's important that you tell the doctor or nurse about your symptoms. this information along with a physical examination and the results of laboratory tests helps the doctor decide whether you have lupus or something else. a rheumatologist (room-uh-tall-uh-jist) is a doctor who specializes in treating diseases that affect the joints and muscles like lupus. you may want to ask your regular doctor for a referral to a rheumatologist. in some cases a dermatologist a doctor who specializes in treating diseases that affect the skin may be involved in diagnosis and treatment. no single test can show that you have lupus. your doctor may have to run several tests and study your medical history. it may take time for the doctor to diagnose lupus.
how do i know if i have lupus?