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Lupus is an incurable, lifelong disease that flares and goes into remission. It is mild in 25% of patients and more severe in the rest. Pain and fatigue can be disabling even in mild cases.
Most of the lifestyle changes you make will be needed to manage symptoms of the disease. A few others will help to prevent flare-ups, whether you are well or sick.
Lupus makes you sensitive to sunlight. Sunlight will burn you easily, worsen lupus skin rashes, and may precipitate a flare-up of other symptoms. To protect yourself:
Lupus is a disease of your immune system. Anything that stimulates the immune system can cause a flare-up of the disease. If you have a cut, clean and sterilize it with water and an antiseptic, such as povidone iodine. Contact your doctor if you get anything more serious than a cold.
Make sure you have a doctor you can contact readily. Schedule regular appointments with your doctor, and contact him or her immediately if you experience any new symptoms or you think a flare-up is coming on. There is much that can be done to alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups. A cooperative lifelong relationship with your healthcare provider can greatly improve your quality of life.
Contact your doctor in the following cases:
The earlier a flare-up can be treated, the less severe it will be. Therefore, it is essential for you to recognize the warning signs and to be in close contact with your doctor.
Common warning signs of a flare-up include:
Eating well can help ensure that your body has the nutrients it needs to function properly and to help you manage lupus and its complications. A healthful diet is one that is low in saturated fat and rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Feeling stressed can put extra burden on your body, including your immune system. Stress can worsen your symptoms, so take steps to reduce stress in your life.
References:
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. McGraw-Hill; 1998.
Lupus Foundation of America website. Available at: http://www.lupus.org/ .
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ .
Last reviewed February 2009 by Jill Landis, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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