10 Tips for Living With Lupus

About 1.5 million Americans have lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the body’s tissues and organs. There’s no cure, but lifestyle changes can reduce uncomfortable symptoms and improve quality of life. 

At Katy Rheumatology & Associates, P.A., board-certified rheumatologist Padma Chimata, MD, FACP, AGS, and our caring team provide complete care for lupus. 

Learning you have lupus can be stressful, but it isn’t the end of the world. These tips can help manage your symptoms, so you feel your best:

1. Always wear sun protection

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage skin cells and blood vessels, triggering an autoimmune response. In fact, exposure to sunlight triggers symptoms in up to 80% of lupus patients. 

You don’t have to avoid the sun altogether, but you should take precautions to protect yourself. Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher if you plan to spend time outdoors. 

In addition, wear a hat with a wide brim and avoid going outside when the sun’s rays are strongest (typically between 10am and 4pm).

2. Get plenty of sleep

Research suggests that sleeping fewer than seven hours a night may increase the risk of lupus. Similarly, lupus symptoms, such as joint pain and headaches, can make it difficult to sleep well. 

To keep symptoms manageable, stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed at the same time each night whenever possible. Likewise, create a comfortable sleep environment. Keep electronics out of your bedroom, use a supportive pillow, and set the temperature at 65℉.

3. Eat a balanced, nutritious diet

One of the main symptoms of lupus is inflammation, so eating an anti-inflammatory diet is crucial. Everyone has unique nutritional needs, but we recommend eating a balanced diet that contains fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. 

To reduce flare-ups, avoid processed items, such as fast food, desserts, and candy. One study found that people who ate diets consisting of primarily ultra-processed foods were 50% more likely to develop lupus.

4. Exercise regularly

When lupus triggers inflammation and joint pain, you may find it challenging just to get out of bed, much less exercise, but moving your body is essential for managing the disease. Regular exercise reduces inflammation, boosts energy, and slows the production of interferon, a protein that causes tissue damage.

Aim to get 30 minutes of exercise at least five days a week. Don’t overexert yourself. Walking, cycling, and swimming are all low-impact activities that can make it easier to manage symptoms.

5. Identify your triggers

Lupus affects everyone differently, but certain triggers can make symptoms worse. Identifying these triggers can help you avoid them and in turn, make it easier to live your life. 

Common lupus triggers include stress, sun exposure, extreme temperature changes, and hormone fluctuations. Keeping a journal of your symptoms and their timing can help you recognize patterns and identify potential triggers. 

6. Visit your doctor regularly

Lupus tends to worsen over time, but you don’t have to be uncomfortable. Regular doctor visits help monitor lupus progression and adjust treatment as needed.

Our team works with you to monitor symptoms and prevent potential complications. We also develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate stress management, sleep counseling, and exercise guidance to help you feel your best. 

7. Manage stress

Have you ever noticed your lupus symptoms worsening when you feel anxious or overwhelmed? If so, there’s a good reason: Stress is one of the most common causes of lupus flares. 

You can’t prevent stress altogether, but you can take steps to keep it in check. For example, activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help center your mind and provide a sense of calm.

8. Do your research

A lupus diagnosis is a life-changing experience. However, the more you know about it, the less scary it is. Educating yourself about common symptoms, triggers, and treatments can provide peace of mind and help you feel more in control. 

If you're unsure where to begin, write down a list of questions and share them with us at your next appointment.

9. Take your medication as prescribed

People who have lupus take an average of eight medications to manage symptoms. For these drugs to work, however, you must take them regularly and as prescribed. Missing a dosage here and there might not seem like a big deal, but it can significantly limit the success of treatment.

If you start a new drug and experience side effects, tell us immediately. With various medications available, we can help you identify the ones that are right for you. 

10. Quit smoking

Smoking is one of the toughest habits to quit, but the payoff is huge. Research shows that people with lupus who smoke have worse symptoms and a worse overall quality of life than nonsmokers. 

Additionally, quitting smoking protects your heart and lungs, so you’re less likely to experience a medical event like a heart attack or stroke.

Contact us today to begin lupus treatment 

Chronic illnesses like lupus make life challenging, but healthy lifestyle changes and routine healthcare make all the difference. Contact us today if you need help developing a personalized lupus treatment plan. Call our office in Katy, Texas, or book an appointment online.