How is Lupus diagnosed?

Introduction: Why Lupus Needs a New Approach

Lupus is a complex autoimmune condition that often goes undiagnosed for years. Traditional approaches rely on symptom suppression, but at Patients Medical in New York City, we go deeper. Our integrative team identifies the underlying causes of immune dysfunction to help you manage lupus naturally, reduce flare-ups, and restore quality of life.

We treat the whole person—not just your immune system.

What Is Lupus?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy tissues—commonly affecting the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs. Its symptoms can mimic many other conditions, making diagnosis challenging without comprehensive evaluation.

Types of Lupus Include:

  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Most common form, can affect multiple organs
  • Cutaneous Lupus: Limited to skin
  • Drug-induced Lupus: Caused by certain medications
  • Neonatal Lupus: Rare, passed to infants from mothers

Common Symptoms of Lupus

Lupus symptoms can flare and fade, often shifting over time. Look out for:

If these symptoms persist, especially in combination, a detailed autoimmune workup is essential.

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop Lupus?

Functional medicine asks why the immune system becomes confused and begins attacking the body. In lupus, contributing root causes may include:

  • Leaky gut and gut dysbiosis triggering immune overactivity
  • Toxin exposure (mold, heavy metals, pesticides)
  • Viral reactivation (e.g., Epstein-Barr Virus)
  • Nutrient deficiencies (vitamin D, omega‑3s, selenium)
  • Hormonal imbalances, especially estrogen dominance or adrenal fatigue
  • Chronic stress and trauma altering immune signaling
  • Genetic predisposition triggered by environment or infection
  • Food sensitivities leading to systemic inflammation

Diagnostic Testing We Use

A lupus diagnosis involves both symptom assessment and lab confirmation. At Patients Medical, we combine conventional testing with root-cause evaluation:

ANA (Antinuclear Antibodies) and anti-dsDNA

Anti-Smith, anti-Ro/SSA, anti-La/SSB antibodies

ESR, CRP (inflammation markers)

Complement levels (C3, C4)

Vitamin D, zinc, omega‑3s, iron panel

Gut health testing (microbiome, leaky gut, Candida)

Hormone panels (cortisol, estrogen, thyroid)

Viral load testing (e.g., EBV, CMV)

Integrative Treatments for Lupus

Nutritional Therapy

We design anti-inflammatory, immune-calming diets to reduce flare frequency and intensity:

  • Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) or modified elimination diets
  • Whole-food, gluten- and dairy-free meals
  • Gut-healing nutrients: bone broth, collagen, L-glutamine

IV Vitamin Therapy

IVs help restore balance and support detoxification:

  • High-dose glutathione for antioxidant support
  • Vitamin C and magnesium
  • B-complex and vitamin D
  • Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) for mitochondrial support

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

Targeted supplements to modulate immune response:

  • Curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol
  • Omega‑3s for inflammation
  • Probiotics and prebiotics
  • Adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola
  • Antiviral herbs for EBV or other triggers

 Gut & Immune Restoration

  • Comprehensive gut healing protocols
  • Mold and metal detox (when applicable)
  • Functional probiotics and antimicrobial botanicals

Hormone Balancing & Stress Reduction

  • Adrenal and thyroid support
  • Gentle hormone optimization
  • Acupuncture, breathwork, and guided meditation

Real Case Study: Layla’s Lupus Transformation

Layla, 29, had been diagnosed with SLE for five years. She was taking immunosuppressants but still experienced weekly flares, joint pain, and brain fog.

Testing at Patients Medical revealed:

  • Leaky gut and dysbiosis
  • Elevated EBV antibodies
  • Low vitamin D and B12
  • Mold exposure in her home

We created a 4-month plan:

  • Gut restoration protocol
  • Mold detox and home air purification
  • IV vitamin therapy with B12 and glutathione
  • Anti-inflammatory autoimmune diet
  • Adaptogenic support for adrenal resilience

Results:

  • Flare frequency reduced from weekly to monthly
  • Mental clarity returned
  • Lower medication doses (under rheumatologist guidance)
  • Renewed sense of empowerment and well-being

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Through clinical symptom evaluation and confirmatory blood tests (e.g., ANA, anti-dsDNA, complement levels), alongside integrative root-cause testing.

While lupus isn’t considered curable, symptoms and flares can often be significantly reduced through lifestyle, nutrition, and root-cause treatment.

Possibly, but our goal is to reduce reliance when safe. We collaborate with your rheumatologist to adjust therapy as your body heals.

We don’t just treat the diagnosis—we investigate immune dysfunction at the root: gut health, toxins, stress, hormones, and more.

Yes—gluten, dairy, sugar, and nightshades often worsen autoimmune symptoms and are identified through testing or elimination trials.

We don’t just treat the diagnosis—we investigate immune dysfunction at the root: gut health, toxins, stress, hormones, and more.

Yes—personalized detox protocols for mold, heavy metals, and more are common in our lupus recovery plans.

Absolutely. Many patients experience depression, anxiety, or brain fog, often tied to inflammation or nutrient depletion.

Many patients begin to see energy and symptom improvements within 4–8 weeks.

Yes—we work alongside conventional therapies to support the body and potentially reduce dosage needs over time.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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