How to Cope With Systemic Lupus

Systemic lupus is an extremely challenging autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attach healthy tissues instead of germs, viruses and other foreign substances in the body as it should. Because the symptoms of lupus change with each individual, it can be difficult to treat and even harder to cope with, but a few tips can help.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Have a team of medical professionals to help you cope with the varying symptoms of systemic lupus. You may find that you need the help of dietitians, physical therapists, general physicians and even natural medicine professions to help get your feeling better physically. While finding treatment that works for you can be difficult, having patience to find the right health care team and then following through with your treatment will help to keep lupus quiet and you feeling well.
2. Consider getting help from a psychologist to help you cope as well, as stress, depression, chronic fatigue, anger, and other strong emotional reactions are common among those with lupus. While the support of friends and family cannot be replaced, a psychologist offers training and expertise to help you deal with the roller coaster ride of emotions.
3. Realize that you are not alone, even when you feel isolated and as if you are the only person on the planet with lupus. Because it is a fairly rare condition, many people in your life will not understand, so get even more support by joining a group of people like you.
4. Exercise as often as possible, doing yoga, Pilates or other gentle exercises which help to maintain or even improve range of motion, strength and endurance. However, while exercise can greatly increase the quality of your life by boosting energy, reducing pain and making you feel strong, you must listen to you body because you will have good days and bad days. Learn to pace yourself and back off if you feel pain or are tired.
5. Become empowered in order to cope with systemic lupus. Studies have shown that people who research the condition and actively seek methods to treat the symptoms at home have fewer flare ups, are less dependent on doctors and have healthier outlooks about their condition. Find what works for you, practicing meditation, writing about the condition, talking to others, experimenting with alternative medicines and having a positive attitude rather than feeling hopeless.