Many diseases vary widely in how they affect individuals, but this is especially true of lupus. Some patients experience only moderate symptoms, such as occasional joint pain. For other individuals, lupus can cause miscarriages, kidney problems, seizures, stroke and other serious consequences.

The effects of lupus can change dramatically even within an individual. You may feel OK during a long period of remission, then suffer pain and complications during a flare. Whichever type and severity of lupus you have, you have several ways to help you cope and feel your best.

1. Get the medical help you need and deserve.

Lupus is hard to diagnose. If you have signs of it, ask your primary care doctor about a referral to a rheumatologist or immunologist. These doctors specialize in conditions such as lupus. Lupus is a common disease, so you may have a relative, friend or co-worker who has lupus and can recommend a good rheumatologist or immunologist. Lupus support groups can also be a source of information.

Try to be a patient patient during the long diagnostic process. Your doctor may need to run a host of blood tests, urine tests, imaging tests and other procedures. Lupus is sometimes called "the great impostor" because it can mimic other diseases, such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis. This period can be tedious, but the wait will be worth it to find out what is causing your symptoms. If you believe your doctor is not taking your condition seriously, take action by seeking help elsewhere. Do not be afraid to get a second opinion.