Ask The Experts Teleconference Series
Ask the Experts is a series of monthly educational teleconferences designed to provide you with important information about living with lupus and better managing your symptoms. Live teleconferences last one hour and are accessible through a toll-free phone number.
All registered participants will receive call-in/log-in information before the event along with any support materials.
On March 25th, learn about the different parts of the immune system that can be affected in lupus and about how lupus medications work to suppress the immune system in order to control the disease. From B cells to T cells and everything in between, this will be an "Immunology 101" session. No background in biology required!
RegisterIf your lupus symptoms become so severe that you are unable to work, you should consider filing for Social Security Disability benefits. This presentation covers what people living with lupus need to know about their rights and the filing process. This April 16th session will be hosted by Thomas J. Giordano, Jr., Attorney at Pond Lehocky Stern Giordano and Chair-Elect of the Social Security Disability Committee of the American Association of Justice.
RegisterLupus and Adolescence: An Overview, and Issues Pertaining to Transition
December 2018
With Dr. Philip Khan, MD
Lupus can interfere with an adolescent development of independence, peer relationships, and day-to-day normal activities. Adolescence is stressful for healthy teens; add the stress of living with a chronic illness and adolescence can be overwhelming. This teleconference covered an overview of issues pertaining to this transitioning period.
Lupus and Pregnancy
November 2018
With Dr. David Gazeley, MD, Rheumatologist, Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin
Pregnancy is no longer considered an impossibility if you have lupus. Advancing technology and a better understanding of the disease and its effects on the body have improved pregnancy outcomes over the last 40 years.
Listen here: https://archive.org/embed/LupusAndPregnancy110618
Lupus and Depression
October 2018
With Brian Poole, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Brigham Young University
Life with lupus can be challenging. With symptoms that come and go, disease flares and remissions, and the uncertainty of what each day may bring, it's normal to experience feelings of fear, frustration, anger, or sadness. However, there is a difference between temporary negative feelings and negative feelings that become overwhelming and long-lasting, which may signal a serious but treatable illness. Join us to learn more about depression and lupus, when to seek professional help, and how to recognize and properly treat symptoms.
Tools for Living Well with Lupus
September 2018
With Bené E. Williams, LMSW
Wellness can be defined as an “active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life.” Learn tips and how to live well with lupus through self-management skills including communication, stress reduction, physical activity, a healthy diet, and personal responsibility.
Lupus and Intimacy
August 2018
With Iris Zink, MSN, RN, ANP-BC, RN-BC
Sexual problems are frequent in many people with chronic diseases. Join Iris Zink as she discusses maintaining a healthy intimate relationship despite lupus.
Lupus and the Skin
July 2018
With Sofia Chaudhry, M.D., Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
Approximately 2/3 of people with lupus will experience some type of effect on their skin. Learn about skin rashes and the impact of sun exposure on lupus patients. Basic treatment options and measures that can be taken to help prevent lupus skin rashes will be discussed.
Research Update
June 2018
With Samuel Pegram, M.D., Rheumatologist, The Rheumatic Disease Clinic of Houston
We know more about lupus research today than we did 10 years ago. Join us for this Ask the Experts Session and hear about the latest in lupus research.
Lupus: Making the Diagnosis
May 2018
With Stacy Ardoin, MD, adult and pediatric rheumatologist, OSU Wexner Medical Center, and Nationwide Children’s
Lupus is a complex and multifaceted disease. It is difficult to diagnose because each person has different symptoms of varying degrees and they mimic many other diseases. The diagnosis can take years to confirm. Join us as a lupus expert discusses the process of making a lupus diagnosis. The presentation will provide an overview of the ACR criteria, lupus signs and symptoms, and what a physician considers before making a diagnosis.
The Holistic Approach to Diet and Lupus
April 2018
With Carrie Holley-Hurt, Holistic Health Coach
In this teleconference, Carrie Holley-Hurt will talk about the connection between diet and inflammation, and provide practical tools so you can create a diet that works for you by improving your quality of life.
Reiki and It's Effects On Lupus
March 2018
With Bryce Goebel, LRMT, Empowering You to Heal Description
Stress in those living with lupus affects the mind, body, and spirit in negative ways. Reiki treats the whole person, including body, emotions, mind, and spirit, creating many beneficial effects that include chronic pain relief, reduction of negative side effects, and relaxation. Join us to learn about Reiki and how to use it to help manage your stress throughout your whole self.
Think Again: Coping with Lupus Fog
October 2017
With Pamela Thorpe, M.D. FACP, Lupus Survivor since 2001, Currently Medical Director of Pharmacovigilance in the Pharmaceutical Industry since 2007
As many as half of all people with lupus describe feelings of confusion, fatigue, memory loss, and difficulty expressing their thoughts. This collection of symptoms is termed cognitive dysfunction. Learn more about "lupus fog", its symptoms and treatment options.
Download the Presentation (PDF)
Cardiovascular Disease and Lupus
September 2017
With George Stojan, M.D.
Heart disease is a major complication of lupus and is now a leading cause of death among people with lupus. There are several ways to decrease your risk for developing lupus-related disease, including reporting changes in symptoms to your doctor right away and having and understanding of the major risk factors. This teleconference will address everything you need to know about how to live heart healthy with lupus.
Download the presentation (PDF)
Teens with Lupus: Transitioning into Adulthood
July 2017
With: Austin Dalrymple, DO; Pediatric Rheumatologist & Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Saint Louis University and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
As a teenager living with lupus, learning how to take charge of one’s own healthcare will assist with better health outcomes as an adult. Teens with lupus and their parents will learn more about this transitional time and receive helpful tips and tools to prepare teenagers with lupus to successfully manage their illness through the adult years.
Download the presentation (PDF)
Clinical Trials 101
June 2017
With: Dr. Namieta Janssen, Rheumatologist from Houston, TX
This presentation is an overview on how clinical trials work, why it's beneficial to participate, and the latest trials focused on treatment for lupus.
Download the presentation (PDF)
Workplace Accommodation for Individuals with Lupus
May 2017
With: Attorney R. Patrick White, LFA Georgia Chapter Board Chair
People living with lupus may not know their rights in the workplace. This teleconference will address how to work with your employer to put together a plan to prioritize your health issues and determine the types of accommodation you may need at your place of work.
An Overview of Social Security Disability Benefits
April 2017
With: Andrew Salata, Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration
The presentation will cover an overview of Social Security Disability, from how individuals become eligible for benefits to how to complete the filing process. The presentation will review additional considerations for women receiving Social Security, and how Social Security assists families.
Download the presentation (PDF)
Eating Smart for & Healthy Heart
February 2017
Presenter: Emily Rubin RD, LDN, Registered Dietitian
Thomas Jefferson University Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Heart disease and stroke are typically associated with risk factors like advancing age, smoking, gender and high blood pressure. However, these factors do not fully explain the increased risk of heart disease and stroke for people with lupus. In fact, research has shown that having lupus, and undergoing treatment can, in itself, be a substantial risk factor for cardiovascular disease. You are not powerless though! One positive lifestyle change you can make to reduce your risk is to eat smart for a healthy heart. Join us and learn more about eating wisely!
Stress Management
November 2016
Presenter: Ellen Sichel, Custom Calm, LLC
It is important to understand the relationship of oral health to overall health and wellness. Join us to learn about how dental health relates to lupus and managing symptoms.
Lupus & Dental Health
October 2016
Presenter: Diane Earle, DDS, MBA, Kool Smiles
It is important to understand the relationship of oral health to overall health and wellness. Join us to learn about how dental health relates to lupus and managing symptoms.
Living a Healthy Lifestyle
September 2016
Presenter: Danine Fruge, MD, ABFP, Pritikin Longevity Center + Spa
Take charge of your daily life through proper disease management, communication, and positive lifestyle changes.
Lupus & the Bones: Diagnosing & Treating Osteoporosis
August 2016
Presenter: Kathryn M. Diemer, MD, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Women with lupus are at increased risk for osteoporosis and are nearly five times more likely to experience a fracture. Learn more about bone density, how osteoporosis is diagnosed, and the most common treatments available including calcium, vitamin D and FDA approved medications.
Finances 101: Living with a Chronic Illness
July 2016
Everyone should have a financial plan to protect themselves and their loved ones. Living with a chronic illness causes unique day-to-day and long-term financial challenges. The teleconference will empower and educate those living with a chronic illness, their loved ones and caretakers regarding ways to proactively organize their finances and strategically plan for their unpredictable circumstances.
Lupus and the Thyroid
June 2016
Presenter: Maria Antonelli, MD from Metro Health Hospital
Thyroid problems are common in people with lupus. About 6 percent of people with lupus have underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, and 2 percent have overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism. Join us to learn about the effects of thyroid disorders and function and their relationship to lupus.
Lupus and Primary Care
May 2016
Presenter: Adegbenga A. Bankole MD, FACP, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
The Primary Care Physician plays an important role in quality care to patients with lupus. This teleconference covers the impact of lupus on diseases that are cared for by PCPs, ranging from hypertension to cancer and teach you preventive measures to take.
Lupus & Mental Health: How to Know You’re in Trouble
April 2016
Presenter: Stacie Camp Bennett, MA, LPC, LCAS
Life with lupus can be challenging. With symptoms that come and go, disease flares and remissions, and the uncertainty of what each day will bring, it’s normal to experience feelings of unhappiness, frustration, anger, or sadness. However, there is a difference between temporary negative feelings and negative feelings that become overwhelming and long-lasting, which may signal a serious but treatable illness. Join us to learn how to determine the difference and recognize and properly treat symptoms.
Lupus and the Kidneys
March 2016
Presenter: Dr. Michael P. Madaio, Sydenstricker Professor and Chairman, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University
Did you know that an estimated 40% of all people living with lupus will develop kidney complications? This educational teleconference will address complications, medical evaluation and treatment as it relates to kidney involvement in lupus.
Affairs of the Heart: Lupus and Relationships
February 2016
Presenter: Molly Dennis, MSW, Health Partners Plans
February is Heart Month and we know that the heart and cardiovascular system, like other organ systems of the body, can be affected by lupus. Lupus can also affect affairs of the heart and relationships. Is your life filled with satisfying relationships and love? Do you feel that others understand your lupus and the demands that it places on you? Join us for this teleconference and explore ways to improve interpersonal relationships and build lasting bonds.
Lupus and the Kidneys
October 2015
Speaker: Arti Gupta, M.D., Dallas Nephrology Associates, Dallas, Texas
Lupus nephritis is the term used when lupus causes inflammation in the kidneys. It is estimated that as many as 40 percent of all people with lupus will develop kidney complications that require medical evaluation and treatment. Dr. Arti Gupta will address diagnosis, monitoring, kidney complications, kidney biopsy, kidney treatment, and kidney prognosis.
Listen to the Recording:
Lupus de los Riñones
Speaker: Carlos Pancorvo, M.D., Dallas Nephrology Associates, Dallas, Texas
Lupus nefritis es el término usado cuando el lupus provoca inflamación en los riñones. Se estima que hasta el 40 por ciento de todas las personas con lupus desarrollarán complicaciones renales que requieren tratamiento y evaluación médica. El Dr. Carlos Pancorvo hablará de el diagnóstico, visitas medicas, complicaciones renales, biopsia renal, tratamiento renal y pronóstico renal.
Listen to the Recording:
Coping with Lupus
September 2015
Speaker: Robert H. Phillips, Ph. D.
When you are first diagnosed with lupus, you will hear about treatment options and the importance of preventing flares—but you may not hear that lupus can have an emotional effect on you as well. You may feel overwhelmed, frustrated, sad, and anxious, but the good news is there are ways to help you cope with those feelings. Join us for this teleconference with Robert H. Phillips, Ph.D., founder and director of the Center for Coping, author of the Coping with Lupus and Lupus Q&A books and a licensed psychologist as he addresses important questions one might have and offers practical coping strategies to help those with lupus live their lives to the fullest.
Listen to the Recording:
Lupus and Female Issues: From Puberty to Menopause
August 2015
Speaker: Amber R. Cooper, MD, MSCI
Women living with lupus face a variety of challenges regarding their reproductive health. Dr. Amber R. Cooper, board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, will discuss how lupus, and the medication used to treat the disease, can affect menstrual function, pregnancy, contraception, menopause, and fertility.
Listen to the Recording:
Lupus and the Skin
July 2015
Speaker: Victoria P. Werth, MD, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine
Approximately two-thirds of people with lupus will develop some type of skin disease, called cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Skin disease in lupus can cause rashes or sores (lesions), most of which will appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, arms, and legs. Listen to hear Dr. Victoria Werth discuss how lupus can affect your skin and effective treatment options.
Listen to the Recording:
Lupus and Hair Loss
June 2015
Speaker: Angela Kyei, MD
A lupus diagnosis often brings many physical changes, including hair loss. Hair loss is a common side effect of lupus and can be caused by medications used to treat the disease. Join us to hear Angela Kyei, M.D. speak on hair loss and ways to be proactive in treating it.
Living Well with Lupus
May 2015
Speaker:Donald Thomas, M.D., FACP, FACR, CCD
Join us for this teleconference with Donald Thomas, M.D., FACP, FACR, CCD, author of “The Lupus Encyclopedia: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Families” as he discusses how to live well with lupus through coping techniques, educating yourself and his “lupus secrets”.
Download Lupus Secrets Handout
Lupus and the Eyes
April 2015
Speaker: Ricardo N. Sepulveda, M.D.
Dr. Ricardo Sepulveda will discuss how autoimmune diseases including lupus affect the eyes. The effects lupus may have in and around the eyes include changes in the skin around the eyelids, dry eyes, inflammation of the white outer layer of the eyeball (scleritis), blood vessel changes in the retina, or damage to nerves in the muscles controlling eye movement and the nerves affecting vision.
Disability and Returning to the Workplace
March 2015
Speakers: Jeff Woldanski, AVP of Job Placement Services at Allsup Employment Services, Inc.and Tai Venuti, MPH, Allsup Mgr. of Strategic Alliances.
Most people don’t know much about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), even though it is part of the largest government benefit program in the United States. For people living with a chronic illness such as lupus, understanding SSDI and its impact on health, insurance, future employment, finances and retirement income is essential. We will explain how SSDI works, including program eligibility, ways to break through the current application backlog, and specific information for individuals with lupus. Additionally, we will share how the Ticket to Work program helps people who already have SSDI return to work, and explain why the employment outlook for people with disabilities is brighter than it has been in the past.
The Lupus-Heart Connection
February 2015
Speaker: Joan M. VonFeldt, M.D., MSEd.
Heart disease and stroke are typically associated with risk factors like advancing age, smoking, gender and high blood pressure. However, these factors do not fully explain the increased risk of heart disease and stroke for people with lupus. In fact, research has shown that having lupus, and undergoing treatment can, in itself, be a substantial risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Lupus and Stress
November 2014
Speaker: Cindy Coney
Physical and emotional stresses are among the suspected triggers for a lupus flare. People with lupus should reduce stress to help them cope with lupus and improve their overall well-being.
Download Cindy Coney's Presentation (PDF)
Lupus and Disability
October 2014
Speaker: Lisa Gonzalez Goetz, PA
Gonzalez & Goetz, LLC
This educational teleconference will help you navigate the often frustrating issues surrounding disability. You will learn what SSDI/SSI is, the qualifications, how to apply, what you need to know to be prepared and other related topics.
Download Lisa Gonzalez Goetz's Presentation (PDF)
Nutrition and Rheumatic Diseases
September 2014
Speaker: Dr. Roxanne Sukol, Cleveland Clinic
Good nutrition is an important part of an overall treatment plan for lupus. Learn how to create a nutritious, well-balanced, and varied diet that takes into account the profound effects of a network as complex as the immune system.
Download Dr. Sukol's Presentation (PDF)
Lupus and Depression
August 2014
Speaker: Beatrice Lazaroff, Ph.D.
Reactions like anger, fear and depression are a normal part of having a chronic illness such as lupus. These emotions are signals from the body and mind that all is not well and that it is time to use your coping skills. When these emotions are dealt with appropriately, they can provide an opportunity to grow and gain new insights into your life.ight.
Download Beatrice Lazaroff's Presentation (PDF)
Lupus and the Skin
July 2014
Speaker: Dr. Frank Santoro
Assistant Professor of Dermatology
University of Connecticut Health Center
Lupus on the skin can come in multiple forms with the most common findings of butterfly rashes, rashes from sunlight, and discoid lesions (scarring, disfiguring lesions). We will discuss the role of the immune, hormonal and environmental factors in the skin disease of lupus. We will review newer therapies and their efficacy in skin disease. Lastly, we will stress the importance of prevention through use of sunscreens, avoidance of the sun and clothing that blocks ultraviolet light.
Download Dr. Santoro's Presentation (PDF)
Pediatric Lupus
June 2014
Speaker: Dr. Reema Syed
Pediatric Rheumatologist
SSM Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center
Hearing that you have lupus, or that your child has it, can be very frightening. However, by working closely with your health care team, you can learn how to best take care of yourself and the special needs of a child with lupus. Learn about what to expect in the future for a child living with lupus.
Download Dr. Reema Syed's presentation
Vivir con Lupus
Speaker: Leyka Barbosa, M.D., F.A.C.R.
North Texas Joint Care, P.A.
Esta teleconferencia educativa incluye una introducción al manejo efectivo de la enfermedad y lo básico sobre el Lupus para alguien recién diagnosticado o persona que se pueda beneficiar. Recibirá información médica exacta y al día sobre el Lupus, sus síntomas, tratamientos y técnicas para combatir la enfermedad.
Download Dr. Leyka Barbosa's presentation
Living with Lupus: An Insider's Perspective
May 2014
Presented by: Pamela Turnbo Thorpe, MD, FACP
Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Individual Living with Lupus
Download Dr. Pamela Turnbo Thorpe's presentation
Lupus and Men
April 2014
Presented by: Joseph Shanahan, M.D., Shanahan Rheumatology & Immunotherapy
Download Dr. Shanahan's presentation
Clinical Trial Education
March 2014
Presented by: Karen Obmaces, President of Accurate Clinical Research & Linda Willies, Clinical Trial Participant for more than 7 years
Download Karen Obmaces presentation
Download Linda Willies presentation
Lupus & Intimacy
February 2014
Presented by: Lisa Covington, MSW, LCSW-C
Download the presentation (PDF)
Living with Lupus
May 2013
Presented by: Stacy D. Kennedy, MD/MBA
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Listen here.
Lupus and Cognitive Dysfunction
April 2013
Presented by: Michael Parsons, PhD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Listen here.
Managing the Doctor/Patient Relationship
March 2013
Presented by: Melissa Hughes, MD
Listen here.
*Personal Medical Records Forms (PDF)- keep track of your doctor visits, medications, allergies and much more
Lupus and Employment
February 2013
Presented by: Rachel D. Ziolkowski, Esq.
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Listen here.
Coping and Living with Fatigue
November 2012
Presented by: Afton Hassett, PsyD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Lupus and the Heart
October 2012
Presented by: Joan von Feldt, MD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Living Well With Lupus
October 2012
Presented by: Sara Gorman
Living Well With Lupus Keynote Presentation
Lupus Treatments
September 2012
Presented by: Murray Urowitz, MD, FACP, FRCPC
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Parents Caring for Children with Lupus
September 2012
Presented by: Emily von Scheven, MD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Social Security and Disability with Lupus
July 2012
Presented by: Sheri Abrams, Attorney at Law
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Coping and Living with Skin Lupus
June 2012
Presented by: Victoria Werth, MD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Living with Lupus
May 2012
Presented by: Donald Thomas, MD, FACP, FACR, CCD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Listen here.
Vivir Con Lupus
Presented by: Marcos E. Maldonado, MD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Listen here.
Nutrition, Diet & Exercise Educational Webinar
February 2012
Presented by: Dr. Joe Raphael
Advances in Lupus Research: Spotlight on Treatment
October 2011
Watch the webinar here.
Lupus and the Brain
November 2010
Presented by: Robin L. Brey, MD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Living with Lupus
October 2010
Presented by: Philip Cohen, MD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Vivir Con Lupus
Presented by: Marcos E. Maldonado, MD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Lupus and the Skin
June 2010
Presented by: Lynn McKinley-Grant, MD
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Disability Issues and Lupus
April 2010
Presented by: Winnie P. Pannell, PC
Download the presentation here (PDF)
Kidney Involvement in Lupus
March 2010
Presented by: Keisha L. Gibson, MD, MPH