MountainView Hospital - August 14, 2018

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects the entire body, from the heart to the skin and hair. Everyone with lupus experiences different systems, as the disease can affect some parts of the body in some people and not in others. However, regardless of the pattern of the disease, there are some healthy living tips that can help anyone with lupus feel their best. If you have been diagnosed with lupus, this advice will help you manage your symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups.

See your physician regularly

Because lupus is a chronic condition, seeing your physician regularly to manage your treatment is essential. Sometimes, lupus can affect parts of the body without any symptoms. By seeing your doctor and having blood work regularly, you will be more in control of your disease and more likely to identify ways the disease is impacting your body before the problems become irreversible.

Be sure to follow your treatment plan closely between visits. If you are having trouble with your medications’ side effects, talk to your doctor.

Avoid exhaustion

Exhaustion can cause a lupus flare-up, so it is important to get adequate sleep each day and to not overschedule yourself. Make sleep part of your schedule, and when you need time out, ask for it. Learning to say no to things that will overextend your schedule is important for your health.

Listen to your body. If you feel exhausted, take time out to rest. Not getting enough rest can make the disease worse.

Exercise daily

The fatigue associated with lupus can make exercise seem impossible, but being active can reduce that exhausted feeling that accompanies the disease. Exercising daily can also improve your mental health and protect your heart, which can be impacted by lupus.

If you haven’t been active recently and want to restart an exercise program, talk to your doctor about which activities may be safe for you.

Have you been diagnosed with lupus and want to live your healthiest life? Make an appointment with a physician at MountainView Hospital for comprehensive care for all your symptoms. Call our Las Vegas hospital at (702) 962-5021 to request a referral to one of our specialists.