These 5 Things Can Help You Live Better With Lupus

Lupus is most commonly found in women between the ages of 15 and 45 and, according to the Lupus Foundation of America, is more often found in African-Americans, Asians, and Latinos. While the cause of lupus is unknown, many researchers believe that genetics play a significant role.

To date, there is, unfortunately, no cure for lupus, and having the disease will require life-long management. However, many lupus patients who follow their treatment plans live a quality life and aren’t severely affected by symptoms. In addition, here are five things you can do to help you live better with lupus.

1. Reduce sun exposure

Sun exposure can induce a flare-up in many lupus patients. While that doesn’t mean you have to avoid the sun altogether, it is wise to protect against it at all times and make sun safety a priority. Try avoiding going out in the sun during peak hours, wearing protective clothing, and wearing sunscreen daily, even when it’s not summertime. This can help you reduce the risk of lupus flare-ups.

2. Exercise regularly

Low-impact exercise can help keep your joints moving, prevent stiffness, boost your mood, maintain a healthy weight and regulate your stress levels. In addition, it’s good for your cardiovascular health, which is a concern for many lupus patients. Bottom line: exercise regularly, even if it’s just in form of a brisk walk.

3. Reduce stress

Too much stress can negatively impact your immune system, and this is especially true for lupus patients. Being under a lot of stress can cause symptoms to worsen and flare-up. For some people, stress is unavoidable due to their work or schedules, but everyone can learn to manage it more effectively. Yoga, mindfulness practices, meditation, deep-breathing exercises, or talking with a therapist can help.

4. Get enough sleep

Sleep is essential for your overall health, and not getting enough quality sleep can increase inflammation in the body. This can exacerbate symptoms of pain, fatigue, and depression. By getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night, you can avoid those adverse effects and keep your energy up.

5. Build a support network

Suffering from lupus can often feel isolating and lonely. Build a support system of people you trust to help you cope with lupus symptoms and flares and get you through those rough days. A support group of fellow lupus patients or a therapist can also offer valuable support for overcoming both the emotional and physical challenges of living with the disease.

Following your doctor’s treatment plan as well as leading a healthy lifestyle can help you manage lupus symptoms and prevent or minimize flares. In addition, eating a healthy diet and getting sufficient calcium and vitamin D can boost your bone and immune system health and help you cope with the challenges of lupus. It’s never easy to be diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, but equipping yourself with as much knowledge as possible can calm your mind, reduce anxiety and help you better deal with lupus.

1. Reduce sun exposure

2. Exercise regularly

3. Reduce stress

4. Get enough sleep

5. Build a support network

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