Things to Avoid if You Have Lupus Written by a Lupus/Stroke Victim
This article is written by someone who has been diagnosed with Lupus Nephritis, which led to two strokes and a 3 month hospital stay follewed by a 2 week hospital stay a year later and between the two, I was diagnosed with kidney failure.
It’s okay though, because I really do not remember the hospital stay, I don’t remember the entire three months really …three months of my husband sitting by my bedside and man, come on, he had to of been bored. I remember everything in the second hospital stay but not the first stay. In the beginning, it consisted of me waking up in a hospital room where I did not know anyone, but I did know my daughter, Ariela.
My husband, Steven has gained lots of experience with taking care of me in the hospital – yes, there are nurses who helped but I think the husband felt I’d be super taken care of if he did it. I will forever owe my “thank you” to my husband and in a way, I feel like he did save my life – if It wasn’t’ for him, I probably wouldn’t be here today writing this article for you, so thank you Steven and I do wish I could do more for you to repay everything you have done for me (like save my life), but I believe I will never compare to that. Anyways back to what I was saying …
Managing lupus involves avoiding certain triggers and behaviors that can exacerbate symptoms or lead to flare-ups. Here are some key things to avoid if you have lupus:
1. Excessive Sun Exposure
It kind of sucks because I live in Florida and what do you have in Florida? You have the SUN …Sun and MORE SUN. The best time is the night time, the hours when the moon is out and the sun is hiding.
– UV Rays: Avoid direct sunlight, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). UV rays can trigger skin rashes and other lupus symptoms. I know it is hard to stay out of the sun, but it is something you have to do if you have lupus nephritis.
– Protective Measures: Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses when outdoors.
2. Stress
– Emotional Stress: Stress can trigger lupus flare-ups. Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises.
– Physical Stress: Avoid overexertion and ensure you get adequate rest and sleep.
3. Smoking
– Tobacco: Smoking can worsen lupus symptoms and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Seek help to quit smoking if needed.
4. Certain Medications
– Contraindicated Drugs: Some medications can trigger lupus symptoms or interact negatively with lupus treatments. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting new medications.
5. Infections
– Illness: Infections can exacerbate lupus symptoms. Practice good hygiene, get vaccinated (as recommended by your doctor), and avoid close contact with sick individuals.
6. Poor Diet
– Unhealthy Foods: Avoid foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and excessive sugars. These can contribute to inflammation and other health issues.
– Balanced Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall health.
7. Alcohol
– Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol can interfere with medications and exacerbate symptoms. Limit alcohol intake and consult with your doctor about safe consumption levels.
8. Lack of Exercise
– Inactivity: While overexertion is bad, so is inactivity. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga to maintain joint and muscle health.
9. Dehydration
– Insufficient Hydration: Dehydration can worsen lupus symptoms. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially in hot weather or when active.
10. Skipping Medical Appointments
– Healthcare: Regular check-ups are crucial for managing lupus. Avoid skipping appointments and follow your treatment plan as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
11. Ignoring Symptoms
– Symptom Neglect: Pay attention to your body. Ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to more severe flare-ups and complications.
12. Overexertion
– Physical Activity: Avoid pushing yourself too hard physically. Balance activity with rest to prevent fatigue and joint pain.
By being mindful of these factors and working closely with your healthcare team, you can better manage lupus and reduce the risk of flare-ups. If any of my readers need further advice on managing lupus or have any questions regarding lupus, please drop a message in the comment section.
Post Comment