10 Things you can do to control your lupus symptoms and help prevent flares

In most cases, lupus develops slowly, with symptoms that come and go. For some people, lupus is a mild disease. But for others, it can cause serious problems. Even if you feel your lupus symptoms are mild, it is still a serious disease which is not to be ignored and demands treatment. Lupus can harm your organs and put your life at risk if untreated.

The best way to keep your lupus under control is by following your treatment plan prescribed by your health professional and taking care of yourself. Here is a list of ten things you can do to help with your symptoms and keep your flares to a minimum

* Know how to recognize that a flare is coming.
* See your doctors regularly.
* Maintain your Medications diligently as prescribed by your doctors
* Keep balance in your life with realistic goals and priorities.
* Limit the time you spend in the sun and in fluorescent and halogen light.
* Maintain a healthy diet.
* Develop coping skills in order to limit your stress.
* Get enough sleep at night and rest during the day when needed
* Exercise moderately with your doctor’s approval and when you’re up to it.
* Build a support system made up of people you trust and can go to for help.

Despite your best efforts to follow your treatment plan and take good care of yourself, there will be times when your lupus symptoms are worse. Being able to spot the warning signs of a flare can help you prevent the flare or make it less severe. Before a flare your symptoms might get worse, or you might get new symptoms, such as:

* feeling more tired
* pain
* rash
* fever
* stomach ache
* severe headache

Contact your doctor right away if you suspect a flare is coming.

Tagged as:  flares · lupus · lupus flare · sle · symptoms of lupus