Lupus is a chronic disease wherein the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs, affecting various body systems such as the skin, kidney, joints, heart, and lungs. It is currently incurable, but a lack of cure, however, should not impede a normal life as part of society. Aside from medication and therapy, there are other ways to help manage the symptoms and avoid lupus flare ups.

The best way for you to keep the condition in check is to conform to a treatment plan set by medical professionals and follow these lifestyle tips for lupus.

1. Things to do when you have lupus

• To begin with, you must be able to identify the triggers of lupus flares.
• You should make it a point to pay a visit to your doctor regularly.
• Follow a healthy diet low in salt and sugar content.
• Get enough rest and undisturbed sleep.
• Use high-factor sunscreen, and wear long-sleeved clothes when you go out in the sun.
• Exercise moderately.
• Build a support system to keep you going.
• Check with your doctor for any new medications that may trigger symptoms.

2. Things to avoid when you have lupus

• Avoid sunlight because sun exposure for long periods can aggravate lupus symptoms. Sun exposure may also cause rashes and other symptoms in people who already have the condition, such as joint pains and fatigue.
• Avoid certain medications that are known to trigger lupus symptoms like sleeping pills such as melatonin and ramelteon and antibiotics like sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim.
• Avoiding certain foods becomes necessary when you have an autoimmune condition as boosting immunity becomes a problem in such cases. People often use supplements and foods for preventing colds, but when you have lupus, these can make the condition worse. Foods like alfalfa sprouts and garlic are some examples of foods to avoid.
• Avoid toxins because research has shown that alcohol, cigarette smoke, and chemicals in the workplace can trigger genetic mutations, which can result in lupus.

3. Lifestyle approaches for living with lupus
These lifestyle changes help reduce the symptoms and stress levels, which are common due to the effects of chronic ailments on the body. Individuals with the condition can start including them in their life gradually rather than all at once, which may become overwhelming.

• You can start practicing yoga, tai-chi, relaxation therapies, and meditation techniques.
• Make an effort to remain physically active by doing simple activities like swimming or walking.
• You should quit smoking, as this may make the symptoms worse.
• Also, try and apply heat to the joints to relieve the pain.
• Finally, you should keep all your medical appointments, and strictly follow your doctor’s instructions.