Hi rich98,
Welcome to the Lupus Site. What symptoms do you have that sent you to the doctor in the first place? My lupus (and stuff) started with pain in one thumb and numbness tingling in the other hand. It progressed from there and by the time I was seen by a Rheumatologist I had pain in my hands, lower arms, face and more. I saw the Rheumatologist about 3.5 months after it all started. I continued working full time plus for many years taking only 4 medications most of that time.
Please feel free to ask questions. There is almost always another member who has experienced the same symptoms as you.
Take care,
Karen