Sjogren’s syndrome is a long-term rheumatic condition that can affect more than your eyes. It can also cause fatigue and musculoskeletal pain. Read on to learn what it is and how it can be treated.
Lupus is a disease in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. This inflammatory condition can affect any part of the body, including the skin, heart, joints, and kidneys. And although there’s no cure for lupus, there are steps you can take to cope with the condition and lead a full and happy life.
Board-certified rheumatologists Nathaniel Neal, MD, and Rebekah Neal-Kraal, MD, of Valerius Medical Group & Research Center in Los Alamitos, California, are experts in treating a broad range of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, including lupus.
In this blog, they explain how you can help keep flare-ups at bay and live well.
Stress can increase the likelihood of having a flare-up. Furthermore, stress can increase the intensity of symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, and fatigue. Because of this, it’s important to manage your stress levels.
Taking time for yourself and engaging in activities that are relaxing and stress-relieving can help dial back stress. Additionally, therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or counseling, may be able to help reduce the number of flare-ups, the intensity of flare-ups, and also help improve your quality of life.
Exercise is essential for people living with lupus. Staying active can help you improve and maintain your vitality as well as increase your life expectancy.
Furthermore, exercise can help improve mood, reduce stress, increase strength, boost fitness, reduce fatigue, and provide a host of other benefits. If you aren’t used to exercising, try engaging in a regular program of low-impact exercise, such as swimming or walking.
From attending social events and volunteering to helping friends and family, it can be easy to pile on too many responsibilities.
Consider what you can manage without overextending yourself, and get into the habit of declining things that may push your energy reserves to the maximum. Keeping yourself from burning the candle on both ends will help you stay healthier and feel better.
While there’s no such thing as an official lupus diet, the foods you eat can affect how you feel. Make a point of including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. Instead of red meat, choose fish and poultry as your protein sources.
Make sure you get enough calcium to keep your bones and joints healthy as well. If you deal with fluid retention or high blood pressure, cut back on your salt intake.
Build a network of people you can rely on to help you cope with the symptoms. Friends, family, and others may be able to help you in day-to-day life. Health specialists, such as physicians and therapists, may be able to help you with the physical and emotional challenges of living with lupus.
There are also numerous local and national support organizations that provide programs and resources that can assist you. A chronic illness can be stressful, and talking with others who have lupus can be beneficial in helping you deal with any challenges. The Lupus Foundation of America is an excellent place to start.
Lupus doesn’t have to hold your quality of life hostage. To get treatment and support, call 562-294-6533 to book an appointment with Valerius Medical Group & Research Center today.
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