Living with Lupus
Allergies, Immunoglobulin E, & Lupus Symptoms
Spring brings more than warm weather. Flowers, pollen, and insects can add allergies to the mix for Lupus Warriors. An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to a stimulus that does not bother other people. An allergen is,…
Oral Ulcers, Mouth Sores, & Lupus
Oral ulcers and mouth sores are a common symptom of lupus, affecting around 50% of Lupus Warriors. These ulcers may be an indication of changes in disease activity. An oral ulcer or canker sore is a shallow injury in the…
Pets, Health Benefits of Animals, & Lupus
“Sometimes it feels like my pet is the only one that understands me,” is a common refrain for many Lupus Warriors. Beyond being good listeners and friends, pets may also offer some health benefits for people with lupus. You’ll see…
Smoking, e-Cigarettes, Nicotine, & Lupus
Many of the dangers of smoking cigarettes, including cancers, COPD, and emphysema, are well known. For Lupus Warriors, it's also important to understand the impacts of nicotine on the immune system. Cigarette smoke, including secondhand smoke, is well-known as a…
I Wish That My Rheumatologist Understood…
Rheumatologists are experts when it comes to autoimmune diseases like lupus. But, that doesn't mean that they understand all the challenges of being a Lupus Warrior. Rheumatologists are key members of the lupus treatment team and are often the clinician…
Gut Microbiome, Bacteria, and Lupus
The bacteria in the body, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, have a major impact on health and lupus. When it comes to gut health, it's all about finding the right balance. From interfering with the stomach and intestines to causing…
Cardiovascular Health & Lupus: Managing the Risk
Lupus Warriors are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, which can be life threatening. Know the potential risks and find lifestyle changes that can help you stay healthy. The cardiovascular system, also known as the circulatory system, is…
Stressors and Lupus: Management Techniques
Stress affects everyone and it can cause major health changes, particularly for people with lupus. Developing successful strategies for coping with stressors is an important part of self care. Stress is hard to define, but we all know it when…
Acupuncture, Pain Reduction, & Lupus
Looking for strategies to help battle pain and fatigue without more medications? Alternative treatments like acupuncture may offer support to Lupus Warriors. The goal of lupus treatment can vary between clinicians and people living with lupus. A recent study found that…
Measuring Lupus Disease Activity Over Time
Some say that the only thing constant is change. This can feel especially true for Lupus Warriors. Despite the value of tracking disease activity, measuring lupus disease activity remains a challenge. Accurate, reliable measurements of disease activity are a crucial…