How to Live with Lupus

Lupus sufferers must deal with the fact that there is no cure for this debilitating disease. Thankfully, there are ways to live with it, but they mostly involve medications and lifestyle changes. And most only deliver relief from certain symptoms. If you need to learn to live with the symptoms of lupus, this post is for you.

What is Lupus?

Lupus is a disease that results in the body’s immune system attacking various cells and tissues within the sufferer’s body. It’s an inflammatory condition that can attack the skin and organs, including the kidneys, liver, brain, heart and lungs. And some sufferers experience crippling joint pain as a result of lupus flare-ups. 

Start by Learning About the Disease

The symptoms of lupus can differ from person to person. Some people only experience mild, short-term symptoms. While others experience almost constant pain and discomfort. The best place to start learning about your disease is therefore a trusted source with first-hand experience in helping sufferers. The Lupus Foundation of America is a great resource in this regard. 

The best way to start managing your symptoms on a daily basis is to understand them. Look for the tell-tale signs of flare-ups, which include sores, joint pain, joint stiffness, ulcers and fever. Keep a symptoms journal, and include details of your day, what you ate, any substances you came into contact and anything that might be a trigger for your flare-ups. 

You might experience symptoms while suffering from other conditions, so be aware. 

Build a Relationship with Your Doctor

You and your doctor should team up to ascertain the best way to alleviate your lupus symptoms. Over time, you’ll be able to identify triggers and avoid them. You should also be able to agree on a treatment plan that works for you. 

You’re likely to be introduced to a rheumatologist who specializes in autoimmune conditions, so ask your GP for a referral if you haven’t already been given one. 

A good specialist will formulate wellbeing strategies with you. They’ll also give you the most appropriate treatment options for alleviating symptoms and minimizing flare-ups. Over time, you should devise an overall strategy based on what your body reacts to. 

Find Help and Support

Having a good doctor by your side will be a huge help. But it’s also important to find help and support during your everyday life. They’ll be there to offer some kindness and support when you’re in pain and suffering emotionally. There are some very good support groups of lupus sufferers, so look for something local so help and advice are always available. Associations such as LupusConnect and Lupus Warriors can help. You’ll also find support via social media groups. 

Look After Your Health

It’s important to attend your regular check-ups with your rheumatologist. And they should continue on schedule regardless of how you’re feeling. Too many people suffer setbacks because they don’t attend medical examination appointments when they feel well. Listen to the advice given, and follow your lifestyle and dietary plan. 

While there are drugs and traditional treatments for lupus, some are expensive — and they all deliver limited results. But a mesenchymal stem cell transplant could offer you relief from a range of serious symptoms. There is some evidence to suggest that this regenerative therapy suppresses the activity of regulatory T-cells. 

Following the doctor’s advice and making lifestyle changes can help to alleviate lupus symptoms. But if your current treatment programs aren’t working, it might be time to consider stem cell therapy. Call the experts today at Cendant to discuss your particular symptoms and the treatment options available.