LUPUS
alias Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Suggestions on how to cope with Lupus
- Become well-educated about lupus.
- Rest is most essential. The fatigue is not like the fatigue or tiredness from physical exertion.
- Try to prepare for the up-and down nature of the disease. Plan alternative activities, alternate time schedules. Allow time for extra rest.
- You can reduce fatigue by developing priorities and learning to pace your daily activities. Break down big, long-term goals into small, manageable steps that can be accomplished in short amounts of time.
- Be open with family and friends about the unpredictable pattern of lupus, and how the disease affects you.
- By "listening" to your pain as a signal, you can begin to control it.
- Find positive ways to channel such negative feelings as anger and depression.
- Try to accept the things you cannot change rather than feeling constantly frustrated and upset over situations beyond your control.
- Remember that stress, depression and pain are all closely connected and each affects the other. If you can, take steps to solve any one of these problems so as to reduce the extent of the others.
- Approximately 1/3 of lupus patients are photosensitive. Avoid direct and prolonged sun exposure and ultraviolet light from artificial sources (e.g. fluorescent lights).
- Wear broad-brimmed hats and cover other exposed parts of the body when out of doors in sunlight and use sunblock creams.
- Although lupus doesn't directly affect the body's capacity for sexual enjoyment, the disease can cause problems. Open, honest communication is necessary to overcome this.
- If lupus has limited your hobbies and activities, find new ways to use your skills.
- Ask for help if you need it. Family and friends, doctors and other health care professionals together with LUPUS UK are all sources of help and support.
- Join your local support group and make friends with others who have lupus.
©Andy Taylor. Last updated 13 Mar 2001