Tips for Managing Lupus Well

Lupus typically poses a handful of challenging issues to a patient’s quality of life in many ways. Chronic in nature, lupus is an autoimmune disease wherein the immune system’s antibodies mistakenly attack healthy cells. This results in inflammation throughout the body, such as in the skin, joints, heart, kidneys, lungs, and blood (varies from patient to patient).

Although there is no cure for lupus, some people can minimise its impact on their lives and maintain a relatively normal quality of life by following personalised treatment plans, making healthy lifestyle choices, and arranging for appropriate support from the people around them. To cope with the challenges of lupus and manage the disease effectively, the following suggestions may be helpful:

Keep Medicine Instructions in Mind

Following a doctor’s instructions regarding medication intake is crucial in order to manage lupus successfully. Always consult your doctor to learn more about the medications being prescribed and how they work.

Schedule Regular Doctor Visits and Obtain Necessary Lab Tests

It has been shown that people with lupus who make regular appointments with their rheumatologist are likely to achieve better outcomes in terms of their health. Since lupus can be a relatively silent disease, it is vital to visit your healthcare provider regularly for lab testing even if you do not experience any major symptoms to determine whether the disease is actively manifesting or not.

Educate Yourself About the Condition

Understanding lupus will enable you to recognise the signs and symptoms of the disease, as well as pinpoint what triggers your flare-ups. A doctor may recommend reliable resources for learning more about lupus and improving your lifestyle to reduce symptoms.

Communicate Openly with Your Doctor

Discuss your symptoms with your doctor in an open manner, and inform him or her of anything that may indicate lupus symptoms. Do not hesitate to discuss even the harder topics related to your illness, such as complications or side effects.

Get Exercise at the Appropriate Level

Maintaining an active lifestyle is one of the most important aspects of managing lupus. The benefits of a moderate level of exercise include improved mental health, weight management, and bone and cardiovascular health. Aside from that, your body releases endorphins, which are chemicals that contribute to boosting your mood, along with supporting a healthy weight and reducing stress levels.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking contributes to inflammation in the body, especially when you have been diagnosed with lupus. Smoking can lead to increased lupus flares, heart disease, cancer, and hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).

Don’t Let Stress Consume Your Life

Lupus flares can be triggered by stress. It is possible to reduce stress by engaging in activities such as meditation, visual stimulation, and yoga. Taking part in positive activities and spending time with supportive people will also contribute to your happiness.