First of all, what is lupus nephritis?

Lupus nephritis is an inflammation specific structures in the kidneys known as nephrons. Often, this inflammation is originally caused by systemic lupus.

You have two kidneys. They are bean-shaped, fist-sized organs located just below you rib cage on either side of the spine. They play a crucial role in keeping the body free from toxins by filtering blood and removing extra water.

Lupus nephritis affects anywhere from 40-60% of people with lupus. Also, men are more likely to develop it as compared to women. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined 6 levels of lupus nephritis that vary based on the severity. A combination of tests diagnose lupus nephritis including:

• Urine tests
  • Measures the amount of protein and red blood cells in the urine
• Blood tests
  • Measures creatinine as a proxy for glomerular filtration rate (GFA). GFA is the rate at which your kidneys filter waste
• Kidney biopsy
  • A biopsy is a small sample of the kidney that is removed. Looking under a microscope, a pathologist uses a biopsy to confirm nephritis, measure disease progress, and plan treatments.

Common lupus nephritis symptoms

• Weight gain
• High blood pressure
• Dark urine
• Foamy, frothy urine
• Swelling in the lower half of the body

These symptoms can become serious if not managed. They may even lead to to kidney failure and/or the need for a transplant. An accurate diagnosis is the best way to help you develop an effective medication and treatment regime.

 

Useful Lifestyle Changes

In addition to medication and other clinical methods, there are several lifestyle changes that can help to mitigate nephritis symptoms. Try to:

• Stay hydrated
• Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking
• Exercise
• Maintain a low sodium diet

 

These habits will help maintain the overall health of your kidneys and can dramatically reduce your symptoms.

Because of the number of lupus patients who also face lupus nephritis there are often ongoing clinical trials. Speak with your doctor and your local lupus community to find out about potential clinical trials and new medications.

One of the most common symptom of lupus, many people experience and live with chronic pain. But, there are strategies for battling it.

“My hands, wrist, shoulders… You name it, the pain is there”

The pain associated with lupus can be one of the most challenging parts of the disease. Everyone with lupus experiences it differently and in different amounts. The most common locations are:

• Joints
• Headaches
• Itchiness and irritation from rashes
• Lungs and breathing
• Abdomen

Causes and Solutions of Lupus Pain

Pain from lupus comes mostly as a result of other common lupus symptoms.

• Sun sensitivity can make bright sunny days can trigger dry eyes, headaches, and sun burn
• Rashes that come from flares are itchy and irritating
• Digestive issues associated with certain types of lupus cause severe stomach cramps
  • Lupus enteritis is a type of lupus that causes inflammation of the small bowel
• Swelling can put pressure on your joints, making them ache even if you aren’t moving around.

That’s a tough list. But, identifying the root cause can help you get the right treatment. Additionally, you can try:

• Wearing sunglasses, hats, or long sleeves in the sun
• Tracking what you eat and manage your diet to help your abdominal issues
• Icing and rest any swollen joints or muscles
• Speaking to your doctor and get the right medication.

Lupus, Fibromyalgia, or Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Another challenge for many Lupus Warriors is that often they are not just battling lupus, but other conditions that cause pain like fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. If you are battling multiple conditions, it is important to make sure you are addressing them correctly.

Make sure to work with your doctor to find the right medications and track your pain. Also, while pain medicines can be helpful, and in many instances are necessary, there are always risks and side effects with medications. It is good to know some other approaches to pain relief:

• Mediation / Breathing Techniques
• Reflexology
• Yoga
• Warm Baths
• Moist Heated Towels

Stress and Staying Positive

Perhaps the most challenging part of the lupus pain is the frustration that comes along with it. Daily aching, headaches, and rashes can wear on you and can make living your normal life exhausting and the stress caused by mental strain can actually worsen your physical pain! So it is important to keep your mind and mood healthy.

How can you help yourself?

• Exercise
• Do meditation or light yoga
• Keep your brain distracted with hobbies and activities
• Stick to a healthy diet from your doctor
• Share with friends and family

Staying positive and keeping yourself focused on other things will not only keep your mind healthy, it can also help to reduce physical pain.