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.

What are the signs and symptoms of lupus? There are actually many of them. And, because so many of the symptoms can be attributed to other diseases and conditions, pinpointing lupus as the cause can be hard to do without being examined by a doctor. However, knowing what those symptoms are can give you a head start in determining whether or not you might have this disease, and when you should seek medical help.

One of the most common symptoms of lupus is fatigue, feeling tired and worn down. In fact, the fatigue can be as debilitating as the pain lupus can cause.

Speaking of pain, joint pain is another common symptom of lupus. Many people suffering from this condition experience pain, stiffness and swelling in their knees, fingers, and other joints.

Lupus can also affect your mental and emotional state, causing memory loss, depression, and anxiety. And the problems and complications lupus can cause in your daily life can make these symptoms even worse.

Some other signs and symptoms of lupus can include:

* Running fevers, even when you don’t seem to actually be sick.
* Losing or gaining weight.
* Sores in your mouth.
* Hair loss.
* Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
* Pains in your chest.
* Skin lesions that get worse when you spend any time in the sun.
* Eye dryness.
* Bruising very easily.

A really distinctive lupus symptom is something called a malar rash. This rash, which can sort of be shaped like a butterfly, can cover the area across your cheeks and the bridge of your nose.

And do your fingers or toes turn blue or white when you’re exposed to the cold, or are experiencing a period of stress. If so, this could be a sign that you have lupus.

Have you experienced four or more of the signs and symptoms of lupus? If so, don’t panic. See a doctor to find out for sure. And know that, with the proper treatment, it is still possible for those suffering from lupus to enjoy a happy, active life.