Living with lupus can be challenging. Fatigue is a constant companion. Joint pain can make simple tasks feel too difficult. There are times when you might feel or become incredibly ill. Lupus is a serious autoimmune disease that can disrupt your life, but it doesn't have to keep you from doing the things you love if you’re proactive and learn how to manage your symptoms.
By understanding lupus and taking charge of your health, you can live a full and active life. Keep reading to learn more.
Understanding Lupus
Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is complex and unpredictable. Our immune systems normally fight off infections like soldiers defending against an invasion. But for people with lupus, the body mistakenly treats healthy tissues as invaders — and that can lead to inflammation in many parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, heart and lungs.
While lupus symptoms vary from person to person, the most common are fatigue, joint pain and stiffness, skin rash, fever and hair loss. Some people experience mild symptoms that come and go. Others experience severe flares that can be debilitating and a threat to their whole-person health.
Managing Stress
Lupus can feel overwhelming at times. Understanding your symptoms and triggers will help you become an active participant in your treatment. And that sense of control can give you a more positive outlook on living with lupus, which improves your well-being.
Stress can be a trigger for lupus flares. When you’re under stress, your body releases hormones like cortisol, which can worsen inflammation throughout your body.
Here are some effective strategies for managing stress and reducing the risk of lupus flare-ups:
- Exercise: Regular physical activity is a powerful stress reliever; even gentle exercise like walking, stretching or swimming can significantly improve mood and reduce inflammation
- Prioritize sleep: When you're well-rested, you're better equipped to handle stress; aim for 7 to 8 hours of high-quality sleep each night. Develop a relaxing bedtime routine to wind down before sleep. Consider purchasing a fitness monitor to track your sleep duration and quality
- Relaxation techniques: Techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation help calm your mind and body
- Strong social network: Having a network of family and friends is crucial. Talking to loved ones about the disease can help them be more supportive. Consider joining a lupus support group to connect with others who empathize with what you’re going through
Practicing Healthy Habits
When you have lupus, it’s important to be proactive. Healthy habits help prevent flare-ups, lessen symptoms, prevent long-term damage and improve your overall well-being.
Here are key areas to focus on:
- Diet: Eating a balanced and nutritious diet helps reduce inflammation and supports your overall health. Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks and unhealthy fats
- Exercise: Regular exercise is essential for managing lupus. It can help improve fatigue, reduce joint pain, boost your mood, and strengthen muscles and bones. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and length of your workouts as you get stronger
- Office visits: Regular medical checkups are important. Your primary care provider or rheumatologist can monitor symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Bring a list of concerns to share at each visit
- Sun protection: Sun exposure can trigger lupus flares. Always wear sun-protective clothing, a hat and broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when outdoors
- Triggers: Identify and avoid your personal triggers, such as stress, certain medications or infections. Talk to your health care provider about how to manage these triggers
Managing Flare-Ups
Lupus flares can be unpredictable, disruptive and cause you to feel terrible. Here are some strategies for managing flare-ups and lessening their impact:
- Early recognition: Keep track of your typical flare symptoms. The earlier you detect a flare-up, the quicker you can intervene. This can mean less pain, fatigue and other debilitating symptoms, helping you recover more quickly
- Medications: Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and suppress your immune system during a flare. Take these and other medications exactly as prescribed. Contact your primary care provider if you experience any side effects
- Rest and recuperation: During a flare, prioritize rest. Listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Sleeping well promotes healing and reduces inflammation
Supporting Someone with Lupus
Living with a chronic autoimmune illness like lupus can be isolating and frustrating. If you know someone with lupus, here are some ways you can offer support:
- Be a listening ear: Sometimes the best way to support someone is simply to listen without judgment. Allow your friend or family member to vent their frustrations and fears. Avoid offering advice they haven’t asked for
- Educate yourself: Learn more about lupus to better understand the challenges they face. The more you know, the more empathetic and supportive you can be
- Offer practical help: Running errands, shopping for groceries or cooking a meal can make a big difference.
- Respect boundaries: Everyone experiences lupus differently. Be mindful of their energy levels and respect their need for rest or time alone
- Understand invisible illnesses: Lupus is considered an “invisible illness.” Invisible illnesses have symptoms others can't see just by looking at someone. Remember that just because a person with lupus may look “okay” on the outside it doesn’t mean they feel fine. Always be kind and offer support
We’ll Help You Manage Your Chronic Illness
Living with lupus can be challenging, but you don’t have to manage it alone. At AdventHealth, our primary care physicians understand the unique needs of people with autoimmune illnesses.
Our personalized care plans address symptoms, help you manage stress and empower you to live life to the fullest.
Learn more about our primary care services and schedule an appointment today.
