Can Lupus be manageable?

It's really a random disease, like many others. For some, it can be controlled or even go into a kind of remission. For others, it can run rampant and cause serious damage to organs, et.al. It just really depends on what kind you have and how your body reacts to Lupus and to the various treatments.

Try to stay in the present day and not waste your energy worrying about it. You will know soon enough and then you will take the appropriate action.

Cheers,

Most doctors will diagnose lupus on the basis of clinical symptoms and labs. Often the diagnosis is not clear but if you truly have lupus eventually it will be confirmed in both symptoms and labs. Your rheumy will know what tests to do. Typically cbc, cmp, sed rate (esr), and possibly a lupus panel. Other tests like ultrasound to see if there is any organ involvement can also be ordered if that is suspected.

http://www.lupus.org/answers/entry/common-symptoms-of-lupus

As for treatment, lupus is usually treatable but some cases are more severe and others just stubborn and chronic. Many patients go through various meds/treatments to find what works for them and carry on a normal life. Others have a problem finding the right treatment for them. Lupus is no different than other autoimmune diseases in these respects.

Remain optimistic and take things a day at a time. Hopefully, your case will be diagnosed and respond well to treatment. I had a very severe life threatening case but have been in full remission for 8 years and off all controlling meds for 3. Each of us is different so all any of us can do is tell you our experiences and what we have heard from others.

Bill