Lifestyle Changes To Manage Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune condition in which the person’s immune system attacks the skin, joints, and other parts of the body. Reports indicate 5 million people worldwide have lupus, with an additional 16,000 developing it every year. Women of color are the most at risk of lupus than others. Symptoms linked to lupus include fever, chronic fatigue, hair loss, breathing problems, heartburn, acid reflux, swollen joints, and an iconic rash on the skin. Lupus is a harsh condition, with flare-ups that come and go.
Thankfully, there are ways to treat lupus. Many of those with this condition choose to try medication to manage flare-ups, including medicated ointments to deal with the butterfly rash on their face. There are also several lupus hair loss treatments out there! Quite a lot of people also say lifestyle changes act as a new treatment for lupus. Let’s find out more!
Going To The Doctor More Often
Many healthy people rarely go to see their doctor. Some don’t even go for their annual physical exam! While they can get away with this, it is a major sticking point for those with lupus. These individuals must see a doctor more often than they initially believe. Of course, some appointments will be to deal with flare-ups and specific issues, but regular appointments without flare-ups to discuss are still vital.
A doctor is the one who can manage a person’s progress with lupus over time and help them keep flare-ups at bay as much as possible. Those with lupus must be committed to regular appointments and rescheduling as soon as possible if any need to be canceled. Every other aspect of managing lupus is far easier when this is done.
Handling The Sun
The sun, although pleasant for many, does cause issues for people who have lupus. Health professionals have determined the UV light from the sun causes a reaction in lupus patients. This means flare-ups! Thus, a major lifestyle change is to put more attention to the sun.
Specifically, those with lupus should cover up their skin more when heading outside. This includes wearing a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing, along with a generous amount of sunscreen! Of course, avoiding the sun is also key here. That said, the sun is a major source of vitamin D. Those with lupus are often told to take a vitamin D supplement to make up for what they won’t get from the sun.
Put The Focus On Omega-3s
A healthy diet is extremely important in managing any health condition, including lupus. Those with this condition benefit from consuming whole grains and lots of fruits and vegetables. Ultimately, balance is important. However, experts recommend putting more focus on omega-3 fatty acids when dealing with lupus. Omega-3s have been shown to improve lupus symptoms, including improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress.
Omega-3s are found in many types of fish, including trout, salmon, and mackerel. Other sources include chia seeds, walnuts, and certain oils. It is best to get omega-3s through dietary sources, but those with lupus also benefit from taking omega-3 supplements.
Keep Stress Low
Everyone knows stress can trigger increased levels of anxiety. It also results in flare-ups of irritable bowel syndrome, more acne, and countless other common conditions. Thus, it stands to reason increased stress causes lupus flare-ups! This is because stress makes the body work harder, especially regarding the immune system. This is why those who are stressed get sick more often! Their immune system is lowered because it’s dealing with stress.
People with lupus are already at a disadvantage with their immune systems, so they must take extra care to keep their stress levels low. This prevents flare-ups and helps them manage symptoms better overall. Patients should practice stress relief techniques such as deep breathing and meditation. Other popular tips for stress relief include aromatherapy, practicing yoga, and even listening to music!
Get More Exercise
Exercise helps boost both the physical and mental well-being of those with lupus. Physically, exercise keeps the body strong, reduces weight gain, and relieves inflammation. Weight gain is a common side effect of many lupus medications, particularly corticosteroids. Inflammation is incredibly common in lupus as well and reducing it where possible lessens the severity of flare-ups.
Additionally, studies have shown exercise works wonders on chronic fatigue, another common symptom of lupus. Of course, those with lupus should choose their exercises carefully. Doctors can help with specifics for patients, but the general rule is to keep it to low-impact choices, such as swimming, pilates, brisk walks, and yoga.