Lupus: The Expert Series

The Expert Series S9E3: Steroids - The Essential Lupus Medicine We Love to Hate 17.06.2026 22min

In this episode of the Lupus Foundation of America's The Expert Series podcast, we focus on how steroids are an essential and often life-saving treatment for people with lupus, even though the new SLE guidelines recommend using them as little as possible. Our guest speaker, Dr. Megan Lockwood, walks us through why steroids play such a critical role in lupus care, the potential risks and downsides of prolonged use and why limiting their use whenever possible is equally important. We also discuss how patients can work with their health care providers to develop a thoughtful, personalized steroid plan and have productive conversations with their doctors about managing steroid treatment.Sign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published: https://support.lupus.org/site/SPageNavigator/email_subscribe_expert_series.htmlThis episode will help you understand:How steroid mechanism of actionThe importance of minimizing steroid useShort and long-term side effects of steroidsAlternatives to steroids in lupus treatmentSafe steroid tapering strategiesFuture treatments and research developmentsRelated Resources:Ask a Lupus Health Educator (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/care-support/ask-a-health-educatorFind Support Near You (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/find-support-near-youNational Resource Center on Lupus (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resourcesThe Expert Series (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-the-expert-seriesMedications Used to Treat Lupus (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/medications-used-to-treat-lupus

The Expert Series S9E2: Taking Care of Your Mental Health - Advice for Making Therapy Work for You 25.03.2026 28min

In this episode of the Lupus Foundation of America's The Expert Series podcast, Dr. Nicoleta Skoufalos discusses lessons from her new book, Understanding Autoimmune Disease: A Therapist's Guide to Invisible Illness. This conversation focuses on the emotional and psychological impact of living with autoimmune diseases like lupus. Topics include loss of identity, trauma, finding the right mental health support, and strategies for integrating illness into one's sense of self.Sign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published: https://support.lupus.org/site/SPageNavigator/email_subscribe_expert_series.htmlEpisode Takeaways:Autoimmune disease can disrupt identity and strain personal relationshipsMisdiagnosis and medical gaslighting often create lasting emotional traumaAccessing the right mental health support is essential for autoimmune patientsClear communication strategies help others better understand invisible illnessesRebuilding identity and discovering new meaning is a key part of life after diagnosisRelated Resources:Ask a Lupus Health Educator (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/care-support/ask-a-health-educatorFind Support Near You (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/find-support-near-youNational Resource Center on Lupus (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resourcesThe Expert Series (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-the-expert-seriesUnderstanding Autoimmune Disease: A Therapist's Guide to Invisible Illness: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/807102/understanding-autoimmune-disease-by-nicoletta-skoufalos-preface-by-cristina-dorazio-phd-foreword-by-sue-gloor/Managing Your Mental Health with Lupus (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-and-depression-know-the-signs-and-how-to-get-help

The Expert Series S9 E1: Your Lupus Treatment Roadmap - Understanding the New Guidelines and What They Mean for You 26.01.2026 20min

In this episode of the Lupus Foundation of America's The Expert Series podcast, Dr. Cindy Aranow discusses the newly released American College of Rheumatology treatment guidelines for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). She explains the importance of these guidelines in providing evidence-based recommendations for individualized patient care, the process of developing and updating the guidelines and key changes that emphasize optimal disease control and reducing long-term steroid use. Dr. Aranow highlights the need for patient engagement and communication with health care providers to ensure effective management of lupus.This episode of The Expert Series was sponsored by AstraZeneca. The Lupus Foundation of America would like to thank AstraZeneca for their support of education programs for people with lupus.Sign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published: https://support.lupus.org/site/SPageNavigator/email_subscribe_expert_series.htmlEpisode Takeaways:Treatment guidelines are recommendations, not mandates, and support - not replace - your doctor’s clinical judgment.Lupus is a highly individualized disease, so care must be tailored to each person.A diverse group of experts develops and regularly updates guidelines based on new research.Guidelines help clinicians navigate complex and evolving medical evidence.Recent guidelines emphasize achieving remission or low disease activity while reducing long-term steroid use.Open communication and active patient involvement are essential for effective treatment decisions. Related Resources:Ask a Lupus Health Educator (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/care-support/ask-a-health-educatorFind Support Near You (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/find-support-near-youNational Resource Center on Lupus (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resourcesThe Expert Series (LFA): https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-the-expert-seriesNew Lupus Treatment Guidelines (ACR): https://rheumatology.org/press-releases/new-lupus-sle-clinical-practice-guidelines-released

The Expert Series S8E5: Lupus and Recommended Immunizations 23.10.2025 26min

In this episode of the Lupus Foundation of America's The Expert Series podcast, Dr. Amit Saxena dives into why vaccines are such a powerful tool for people living with lupus. Since lupus and some of its treatments can weaken the immune system, getting the right vaccines can make a big difference in staying healthy and preventing serious infections. Dr. Saxena also breaks down which vaccines are most important and how lupus medications can impact their effectiveness.Sign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published: https://support.lupus.org/site/SPageNavigator/email_subscribe_expert_series.htmlEpisode Takeaways:Vaccines help protect people with lupus from serious infections, which can be harder for them to fight off.Getting the flu, COVID-19, and shingles vaccines is especially important.Some lupus medications might need to be paused before getting certain vaccines, so make sure to talk to your doctor first.While side effects can sometimes feel stronger, vaccines are generally safe and effective for people with lupus.Adults with lupus may also need booster shots or updated versions of vaccines they received as kids.Related Resources:Ask a Lupus Health Educator: https://www.lupus.org/care-support/ask-a-health-educatorFind Support Near You: https://www.lupus.org/resources/find-support-near-youBe Prepared to Fight Flu and COVID this Winter: https://www.lupus.org/blog/be-prepared-to-fight-flu-and-covid-this-winterLupus and Vaccines: https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-and-vaccinesNational Resource Center on Lupus: https://www.lupus.org/resourcesThe Expert Series: https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-the-expert-series

La Serie de Expertos: Lupus y Manejo del Dolor 02.10.2025 15min

En este episodio de La Serie de Expertos, el pódcast de la Fundación de Lupus de América, la Dra. Olga Kromo analiza las complejidades del lupus y su impacto en el manejo del dolor. Aborda los distintos tipos de dolor, las opciones de tratamiento y la carga emocional que conlleva el dolor crónico. Destaca la importancia de comprender el origen del dolor, mantener una comunicación clara con los profesionales de la salud y contar con una atención integral. Asimismo, resalta la relación entre el dolor y la fatiga, el papel de la alimentación y las investigaciones futuras que ofrecen tratamientos prometedores.This episode is also available in English. Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0bJcmfMlrSJno9EtoYbBYWRegístrese para recibir correos electrónicos de la Fundación de Lupus de América (LFA) cuando se publiquen nuevos episodios: https://support.lupus.org/site/SPageNavigator/email_subscribe_expert_series.html (en inglés)Conclusiones:El lupus es una enfermedad compleja que causa inflamación y diferentes tipos de dolor.El dolor crónico y la fatiga pueden afectar de manera significativa la vida diaria, el bienestar emocional y la salud mental.El manejo del dolor a menudo requiere medicamentos, cambios en el estilo de vida y técnicas de reducción del estrés.La alimentación desempeña un papel importante en el manejo de los síntomas del lupus.La comunicación clara con los profesionales de la salud y el seguimiento de los síntomas son fundamentales para una atención eficaz.Las redes de apoyo, la educación y la investigación en curso ofrecen esperanza de tratamientos mejorados y futuros avances.

The Expert Series S8E4: Lupus and Pain Management 02.10.2025 11min

In this episode of the Lupus Foundation of America's The Expert Series podcast, Dr. Olga Kromo discusses the complexities of lupus and its impact on pain management. She covers types of pain, treatment options, and the emotional toll of chronic pain. She emphasizes understanding the source of pain, clear communication with providers, and comprehensive care. She also highlights the link between pain and fatigue, the role of diet, and future research with promising treatments.Este episodio también está disponible en español. Escúchelo aquí: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3cC5lbZcrrMkTVV31xkejCSign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published: https://support.lupus.org/site/SPageNavigator/email_subscribe_expert_series.htmlEpisode Takeaways:Lupus is a complex disease that causes inflammation and different types of pain.Chronic pain and fatigue can greatly affect daily life, emotional well-being, and mental health.Pain management often requires medications, lifestyle changes, and stress reduction techniques.Diet plays an important role in managing lupus symptoms.Clear communication with healthcare providers and tracking symptoms are key to effective care.Support networks, education, and ongoing research offer hope for improved treatments and future breakthroughs.

The Expert Series S8E3: Lupus and Men 06.06.2025 30min

In this episode of the Lupus Foundation of America's The Expert Series podcast, we focus on the unique challenges faced by men with lupus, a group that often experiences delayed diagnosis and is impacted by widespread misconceptions. Dr. Lisa Sammaritano shares how lupus symptoms can differ between men and women, and how the disease can affect mental health, identity, and quality of life. We also discuss reproductive health concerns and the evolving landscape of lupus treatment. For men who are newly diagnosed, Dr. Sammaritano offers practical guidance and emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, education, and seeking support throughout the lupus journey.Sign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published.Episode Takeaways:Lupus in men is often overlooked, leading to delayed diagnosis and misunderstandings about the disease.Symptoms and disease progression can differ in men, making personalized care especially important.Self-advocacy and education are key to managing lupus and navigating the healthcare system.Mental health and reproductive health concerns are important but often under-addressed aspects of living with lupus.Support from peers, family, and friends plays a vital role in coping and improving quality of life.Related Resources:Ask a Lupus Health Educator (LFA) Find Support Near You (LFA) National Resource Center on Lupus (LFA) American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Systemic lupus erythematosus and male reproductive health: A systematic review and meta-analysis Impact of sex disparities on the clinical manifestations in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

The Expert Series S8E2: Lupus and Menopause 14.04.2025 46min

In this episode of the Lupus Foundation of America's The Expert Series podcast, we explore the intersection of menopause and lupus, highlighting the unique challenges faced by women with lupus during this significant life transition. Dr. Mehret Birru Talabi explains the stages of menopause, its effects on lupus symptoms, and the importance of individualized care. We also cover hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle factors, and the necessity of self-advocacy in managing health during menopause. And although we know it isn’t easy, we also talk about how important it is for women to prioritize their health and seek support from their health care team.Sign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published.Episode Takeaways:Menopause is a significant transition in women's lives. Because most people with lupus are women, most people with lupus will experience this transition.Estrogen plays an important role in autoimmune diseases like lupus and fluctuating estrogen levels during menopause can cause both increases and decreases in disease activity.Hormone replacement therapy can be an option for women with lupus who are having difficulty managing the symptoms of menopause. There is no one size fits all approach to lupus or menopause and women should discuss all of their options with their health care team.Lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise are vital in managing menopause symptoms and lupus. Even small changes can lead to positive results.Quality of life matters and women with lupus don’t have to face difficult symptoms of menopause without help. Learning and practicing self-advocacy is essential for women navigating menopause and lupus.Related Resources:Grown Women Talk: Your Guide to Getting and Staying Healthy by Sharon MaloneAsk a Lupus Health Educator (LFA)Find Support Near You (LFA)National Resource Center on Lupus (LFA)The Expert Series: Lupus and Antiphospholipid Syndrome (LFA)The Expert Series: Planning for Pregnancy With Lupus (LFA)

The Expert Series S8E1: Lupus and Fibromyalgia 13.01.2025 32min

This episode explores the complex relationship between lupus and fibromyalgia, focusing on definitions, symptoms, overlapping conditions, treatment approaches, mental health implications, cultural influences, lifestyle factors, diagnostic tools, and the importance of patient advocacy. Experts Drs. Peter Izmirly and Kelly Corbitt provide insights into the challenges faced by patients with both conditions and discuss the need for better understanding and treatment options. Sign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published. Related Resources: Strategies for Managing Pain (LFA) Staying Active When You Have Lupus (LFA) Ask a Lupus Health Educator (LFA) FMAware.org (National Fibromyalgia Association resource site mentioned by Dr. Corbitt)

The Expert Series S7E2: Race-free eGFR Calculations and Implications for People Living With Lupus Nephritis 07.11.2024 29min

Drs. Ashira Blazer and Denise Kimbrough discuss the recent removal of the African American/Black race coefficient from the Kidney Donor Profile Index (KDPI) by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN). Learn about the implications for lupus patients with kidney disease and the potential impacts on health equity. Episode Takeaways: Lupus-related kidney disease (lupus nephritis) disproportionately affects African American/Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, South Asian and Latino/a populations, who face longer transplant wait times due to systemic inequities and social determinants of health. Biases in medical algorithms, such as race-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) calculations, can harm patient outcomes. Recent removal of race from eGFR calculations could potentially improve access to transplants for communities where previous opportunities for transplantation were significantly lower. Enhancing education and awareness related to kidney health is essential for addressing these health disparities and improving outcomes. Sign up to receive emails from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) when new episodes are published. Related Resources: New Policy Will Remove Race, Improve Equity in Transplantation (National Kidney Foundation) Kidney transplant for lupus: Your essential questions answered (LFA) Lupus Nephritis Information Center (LFA) Lupus and the Kidneys (LFA) What is lupus nephritis? (LFA)

The Expert Series S7E1: Lupus Nephritis 04.03.2024 42min

March is Kidney Month! Join us for a conversation with Dr. Brad Rovin, an expert in autoimmune kidney disease, where we talk about lupus nephritis and kidney health for people with lupus.

The Expert Series S6E6: Lupus and Cancer 20.11.2023 14min

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Sasha Bernatsky, about lupus and cancer, if there’s a link between lupus and cancer, and a new abstract about cancer incidence and risk factors in a large SLE cohort. Dr. Bernatsky is a rheumatologist, a James McGill professor and a senior scientist in the Centre for Health Outcomes Research and Division of Clinical Epidemiology at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre. Her expertise lies in using ‘big data’ from health services, linked to additional clinical sources of information. Read more about lupus facts and statistics Learn how doctors diagnose lupus FAQs about participating in clinical trials Help expand lupus research through RAY (Research Accelerated by You) Read the mentioned abstract: Updated analyses of cancer incidence and risk factors in a large international SLE cohort SUBSCRIBE to receive an email update when new episodes of The Expert Series are released.

The Expert Series S6E5: Stress and stress management 19.10.2023 20min

In this episode of the Expert Series, we speak with Dr. Christie Bartels about stress and stress management for people with lupus. Dr. Bartels covers how to manage stress, resources to manage stress and the difference between stress symptoms and lupus symptoms. Dr. Bartels is Division Chief of Rheumatology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and Chair of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) RISE Registry Health IT Committee. As a rheumatologist health services and implementation researcher, Bartels’ work aims to improve cardiovascular health and reduce disparities among patients with lupus and rheumatic diseases. For more resources on stress and stress management: Managing stress when you have lupus Managing mental health with lupus Find Support Near You Other resources mentioned in the episode SELF Insight Timer Arthritis Foundation’s Walk with Ease program

The Expert Series S6E4: Lupus and teens 21.09.2023 41min

In this episode of The Expert Series, Dr. Tamar Rubinstein, a pediatric rheumatologist at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in New York, talks with us about how lupus affects teenagers, how they can cope with lupus, and how to communicate with health care providers as teens get older. Her research focuses on improving mental health and disease outcomes in youth with lupus and has been funded by the Lupus Foundation of America, the Rheumatology Research Foundation, the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA)/ Arthritis Foundation, and the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases at the NIH. Resources: Find out more about lupus and teens School survival guide for teens with lupus Helping teens learn to cope with lupus SELF app, for people 18+ in the U.S. Mentioned resources: Take a pain check, a chronic disease podcast meant to support youth with rheumatic diseases

TES Bonus Episode: The Awakening: When lupus looks like mental illness 21.06.2023 23min

In this episode of The Expert Series, Dr. Anca Askanase, professor of medicine, the founder and director of Lupus Center and director of Rheumatology Clinical Trials at the Division of Rheumatology of the Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City, will be sharing about her role in the successful treatment of a catatonic woman who awakened after 20 years. Read the article on April’s case and others on the Washington Post, How autoimmune disease can attack the brain, cause psychiatric symptoms Lupus resources: Coping with the cognitive symptoms of lupus What is inflammation? How lupus affects the body

The Expert Series S6E2: Visible Symptoms of Lupus 20.04.2023 17min

In this month’s episode, we learn more about visible symptoms of lupus with Dr. May Choi. Dr. Choi will discuss the difference between visible and invisible symptoms, treatment options, and ways to cope with visible manifestations of lupus. Dr. Choi is a rheumatologist, clinician scientist, and Assistant Professor at the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary. Resources Check out our previous episode about invisible symptoms with Dr. Cynthia Aranow Use this sheet to keep track of your lupus symptoms Learn how lupus affects the body

The Expert Series S6E1: Invisible Symptoms of Lupus 23.02.2023 14min

Dr. Cynthia Aranow explains the impact of invisible symptoms in this episode of The Expert Series. Learn the difference between a sign and symptom and how to discuss this topic with your health care team and loved ones. Review these resources to learn more about this topic: https://www.lupus.org/resources/understanding-the-invisible-impact-of-lupus https://www.lupus.org/resources/ten-things-to-tell-your-friends-about-lupus https://www.lupus.org/resources/learn-ways-to-better-manage-your-lupus https://www.lupus.org/resources/financial-assistance SUBSCRIBE to receive an email update when new episodes of The Expert Series are released.

The Expert Series S5E13: Remission: Can my lupus go away? 22.12.2022 20min

There is no set definition or timeframe for what counts as lupus remission. It’s no wonder lupus remission is a confusing topic! This month, Dr. Ronald van Vollenhoven, director of Amsterdam Rheumatology Center in the Netherlands, shares his expertise about lupus remission and inactive lupus and what it means for lupus warriors. Learn more about lupus remission on our National Resource Center on Lupus https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-remission https://www.lupus.org/resources/patient-physician-dialogue-tool https://www.lupus.org/resources/your-genes-and-lupus

The Expert Series S5E12: Step Therapy and access to medications 17.11.2022 11min

In this episode of The Expert Series, we explore the topic of Step Therapy and access to medications. LFA’s Health Education Specialist and Manager Ashley Holden will explain what Step Therapy is and how it can affect people with lupus. Related resources Check out LFA’s Policy Spotlight on Step Therapy Medications that treat lupus Learn how to self-advocate for yourself or a loved one here

The Expert Series S5E11: Lupus and bone health 20.10.2022 20min

Inflammation from lupus and treatments can affect a person’s bone density, which makes it easier for someone with lupus to break a bone. Dr. Ummara Shah, associate professor in the department of medicine at University of Rochester, discusses why it’s important for people with lupus to care about their bone health. Dr. Shah also leads clinical trials in lupus and is involved in education of lupus patients at the University of Rochester. More resources on how to manage bone health: https://www.lupus.org/resources/how-lupus-affects-the-bones https://www.lupus.org/resources/osteoporosis-management-strategies https://www.lupus.org/resources/how-lupus-affects-the-muscles-tendons-and-joints https://www.lupus.org/resources/exercising-with-lupus