Learning How to Handle a Lupus Flare-Up
By Brandi Goodman
Lupus Awareness Month in May encourages people everywhere to learn more about this chronic disease. Individuals living with lupus can learn how to best handle a flare up so they can maintain their health even in times of stress and illness. Some preventive methods are possible to control symptoms and keep them from majorly impacting your daily life.
Staying Out of the Sun
During a flare-up in which rashes are present, it is important to stay out of the sun. Fluorescent and halogen lighting can also cause irritation. Stay out of any of these types of lights and remain in cool environments to prevent the rash from spreading or worsening.
Finding Coping Techniques for Stress
Significant stress can bring on a lupus flare. Find coping techniques that can help to keep your stress low and your symptoms at bay. You may find that writing daily in a journal helps. Perhaps art is your outlet. Color a picture, paint, or create some sculptures out of clay or dough. Spending more time laughing can also help with stress. Find coping techniques that work well for you and continue using them any time you feel overwhelmed or upset.
Getting Enough Rest
Not getting enough rest and feeling extremely fatigued can be a sign that a flare-up is coming. Make sure you're sleeping enough at night so you do not become ill. Set a bedtime routine. Use a diffuser with lavender. Have dark curtains over your windows that block out the light. It's easier to sleep if you feel calm and have quiet. If you feel extremely tired during the day, take a short nap so you can rest your mind and body.
Recording Triggers
Certain things may make lupus symptoms flare up more for one person than another. Record your personal triggers and take note of the times when your flare ups occur. If sunlight doesn't seem to bother you, then you can be out in it more than another with the same disease. If taking a new medication caused an issue, then write this down and discuss with your doctor. Keeping track of stuff like this will help you learn what to avoid in the future.
Managing lupus is not easy, but it is possible as long as you find some ways to prevent flare-ups. Times of illness can be few and far between if you know how to keep symptoms from becoming drastic. Learn how to manage your illness so it does not impact every aspect of your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Henderson, Nev.
