Complete Treatment Plan
Since the disease affects different parts of the body, a patient probably will see several different doctors. It may be helpful for one doctor to manage the complete treatment plan. This doctor can:
- coordinate the treatments
- monitor any side effects from the various drugs the patient takes
Patients should tell each of their doctors about all of the drugs they are taking.
A rheumatologist often manages a patient's treatment and treats joint disease. Specialists may also treat other symptoms:
- Gynecologist treats genital sores in women
- Urologist treats genital sores in men
- Dermatologist treats genital sores in men and women, and skin and mucous membrane problems
- Ophthalmologist treats eye inflammation
- Gastroenterologist treats digestive tract symptoms
- Hematologist treats disorders of the blood
- Neurologist treats central nervous system symptoms
Control
Although there is no cure, people usually can control symptoms with:
- proper medication
- rest
- exercise
- healthy lifestyle
The goal of treatment is to reduce discomfort and prevent serious complications such as disability from arthritis or blindness. The type of medicine and the length of treatment depend on a patients symptoms and their severity.
Treatment Combinations
It is likely that a combination of treatments will be needed to relieve specific symptoms.
Although rest is important during flares, when the symptoms have improved, doctors usually recommend moderate exercise, such as:
