What is Lupus?

 

The Lupus Foundation of America gives this definition:

"Lupus is a chronic (long-term) disease that can cause inflammation and pain in any part of 

your body. It's an autoimmune disease, which means that your immune system - the body

system that usually fights infections - attacks healthy tissue instead."

Lupus can affect the skin, joints, and internal organs. People with lupus commonly experience pain, inflammation, fatigue, brain fog, and sensitivity to the sun (it makes us feel sick and activates the disease, introducing the potential for growth. Also, a common drug used to treat lupus, Plaquenil, makes us more likely to burn in the sun. So the sun is not a friend of lupus). 

If the disease gets worse or internal organs become affected, it gets more serious. Thankfully, this is not yet my problem. 

I do experience all of the above symptoms in varying degrees depending on the day and season, as well as life factors like overall wellness and stress levels.

I have found that the recommended lifestyle adjustments of eating a Mediterranean-ish diet, staying active (but being careful to not overdo it), educating myself about lupus, and really tuning in to my body's cues have helped me re-orient and start to recover some sense of self in this new situation. 

If you have specific questions, don't hesitate to ask! 😃

For more information, visit the Lupus Foundation of America website.