Contents
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Overview
Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation in skin, joints, kidneys, brain and blood vessels. Beyond painful flares, SLE raises the risk of blood clots and ischaemic stroke, particularly when antiphospholipid antibodies are present—so early diagnosis and proactive prevention are vital.
At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, Aylesbury you can access consultant‑led assessment, fast laboratory and imaging services, and integrated rehabilitation and lifestyle support—all under one roof.
Why Early Control Matters — Including Stroke Risk
- Active inflammation and antiphospholipid antibodies increase clotting, raising the risk of stroke and heart attack
- Unchecked disease can permanently damage kidneys, lungs and nerves
- Persistent fatigue and joint pain limit work, driving and family life
- Long steroid courses without monitoring lead to osteoporosis, diabetes and weight gain
- Timely therapy preserves organ function, fertility and long‑term quality of life
Symptoms You Might Notice
- Aching, stiff or swollen joints, often worse in the morning
- Extreme fatigue that sleep does not fix
- Butterfly‑shaped rash across cheeks and nose, or sun‑sensitive rashes elsewhere
- Mouth or nose ulcers, hair thinning or Raynaud’s (white/blue fingers in cold)
- Chest pain on deep breathing, shortness of breath or palpitations
- Foamy urine, ankle swelling or high blood pressure (possible kidney involvement)
- Headaches, seizures, memory problems or mood change during flares
Who Is Most At Risk?
- Women of child‑bearing age (but men and older adults can develop SLE)
- Family history of lupus or other autoimmune conditions
- People of Black African, Caribbean, Asian or Hispanic heritage
- Exposure to ultraviolet light, smoking or certain medications (drug‑induced lupus)
- Presence of antiphospholipid antibodies or a history of unexplained clots or miscarriages
When To Seek Medical Advice
Call 01296 678 800 if you have persistent joint pain, unusual rashes, unexplained fatigue or symptoms affecting kidneys, chest or brain.
Seek urgent care if you develop sudden weakness, facial droop, speech problems or severe chest pain—these could signal stroke or pulmonary embolism.
How We Diagnose And Monitor SLE
- Consultant Medical Assessment – detailed symptom history, medication review and physical examination.
- Rapid Laboratory Tests – ANA, dsDNA, ENA panel, complement levels, ESR/CRP, kidney profile and antiphospholipid antibodies via our Blood‑Testing Service, with results typically back within 24 hours.
- Imaging When Needed – CT in our on‑site CT Suite for chest or abdominal complications; ultrasound for joints or kidneys.
- Cardiovascular And Stroke‑Risk Screening – blood pressure, cholesterol profile and ECG, with referral to our Cardiology Department (/departments/cardiology/) where appropriate.
- Regular Follow‑Up – reviews every 3–6 months (more often during flares) to adjust medication and monitor organs.
Treatment And Ongoing Support
Disease Control
- Hydroxychloroquine as the cornerstone long‑term therapy
- Short courses of corticosteroids for acute flares, tapered quickly to minimise side effects
- Steroid‑sparing immunosuppressants (azathioprine, mycophenolate, methotrexate) when needed
- Biologic agents (e.g., belimumab) for refractory disease, arranged swiftly where indicated
Stroke And Clot Prevention
- Antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy when antiphospholipid antibodies or prior clots are present
- Aggressive management of blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking cessation
- Weight control and exercise programmes through our Rehabilitation Service (/rehabilitation/stroke-rehab/)
Whole‑Person Support
- Dietetic guidance from our Dietetic Team (/departments/nutrition/) on anti‑inflammatory eating, vitamin D and bone health
- Physiotherapy for joint protection, strength and fatigue pacing
- Psychology and counselling for coping with chronic illness and flare anxiety
- Bone‑density monitoring and osteoporosis prevention if steroids are used long term
Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?
- Appointments usually available within one week
- Fast, co‑located bloods and CT imaging for rapid answers
- Consultant‑delivered clinics; no junior‑doctor hand‑offs
- Integrated cardiology, dietetics, physiotherapy and rehabilitation services on site
- Flexible evening and Saturday slots, plus virtual follow‑ups
- Private ensuite rooms, free parking and easy access from Oxford, Milton Keynes and London
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Lupus Go Into Remission?
Yes. Many people achieve long symptom‑free periods with the right medication and lifestyle measures, though monitoring must continue.
Do I Need Lifelong Medication?
Most patients stay on hydroxychloroquine indefinitely as it reduces flares and protects the heart. Other drugs may be tapered if disease remains quiet.
How Can I Lower My Stroke Risk?
Stop smoking, keep blood pressure and cholesterol low, maintain a healthy weight, stay active and follow your clinician’s advice on antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy.
Take Control Of Lupus And Protect Your Brain
Call 01296 678 800 or enquire online to arrange your SLE assessment and personalised management plan.
22 July 2025