Lupus care in Nigeria: regular checks for the kidneys, and help between flares
Mezo Health supports people with lupus between rheumatology visits: a named GP you choose keeps your urine and blood checks on schedule, so kidney problems are caught early, sees you by video for everyday problems, and makes sure your rheumatologist sees you on time. Chest pain, a fit, or passing very little urine needs a hospital now, not a video call.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Who this is for
- Adults diagnosed with lupus (SLE), on treatment or not
- People on hydroxychloroquine, steroids or other lupus medicines that need monitoring
- Women with lupus planning a pregnancy
- Families abroad who want a parent's or sibling's lupus care kept on track
How often you are reviewed
- 1
Regular reviews, set by your rheumatologist
The NHS describes lupus as a long-term condition needing regular check-ups. How often depends on how active it is and which organs are involved.
- 2
Urine and blood checks at every review
Kidney involvement can be silent, so the urine is checked for protein and the blood for kidney function and blood counts.
These are the guideline intervals, listed under sources below. Your GP may see you more often.
Tests, and when they are done
| Test | When |
|---|---|
| Urine test for protein, and kidney function | At each review, or as your rheumatologist sets. |
| Full blood count | At each review. |
| Blood pressure | At every review. |
Your GP orders the tests on Mezo. You see the price and pay before you go, then choose a partner lab or, in Lagos, a home collection.
What your GP does
- Keeps your urine and blood checks on schedule and goes through the results with you
- Sees you by video for everyday problems, infections and side effects
- Keeps your vaccinations and blood pressure checks up to date
- Makes sure you see the rheumatologist on time, and sooner in a flare
When a rheumatologist is involved
- Diagnosis, and every change of treatment
- A flare, or new kidney, blood, heart or lung problems
- Before trying for a baby
Rheumatologists join Mezo as they are verified. When none is taking bookings, a care coordinator arranges one for you and your GP sends a summary of your care.
Find a rheumatologist on Mezo- Rheumatology Consultation, from ₦66,000
Go to the nearest emergency department now if
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- A fit, sudden confusion or sudden weakness of an arm or leg
- Passing very little urine, or swelling that is getting worse quickly
- A high fever while on treatment that lowers immunity
A video consult is not the place for an emergency.
Questions people ask
Who looks after lupus?
A rheumatologist leads, with a kidney specialist, dermatologist or obstetrician involved when needed. A GP can share the routine care, keeping the checks on schedule between specialist visits.
Why is my urine checked every time?
Lupus can affect the kidneys without any symptoms at first. Protein in the urine is often the earliest sign, and treating it early protects the kidneys.
Can I stop hydroxychloroquine when I feel well?
Do not stop it on your own. It helps prevent flares even when lupus is quiet. Talk to your rheumatologist about any change.
Is Your GP insurance?
No. Your GP is a monthly subscription, not insurance. Nothing is included: every consult, test and medicine is paid when you use it, at the member price, shown before you pay.
Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Lupus. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 30 October 2026.