Living Well with
Lupus is something
I have tried to do for many years now.
HOWEVER What I didn't realize was that hiding how sick I REALLY was
each
time I went to my DR. forced him to be under the impression I was
stable
(because
I didn't want to be put back on steroids and anti-malarials) - SEE BEV
in 1988 on Steroids/Antimalarials
and thus when I applied for CPP Disability I was turned down twice as
the
only info my Dr. had was that he thought I was stable because I wasn't
complaining
to him (for fear of meds again). SO although the key to Living well
with
Lupus is to not dwell on the pain and symptoms it's necessary for you
to
tell your Dr. EVERY symptom you have EVERY time you go see
one. (Write them all down).
Smiths
Falls, ONTARIO CANADA has been running a Support Group for over 20
years now!
The group focus is on LIVING WELL with LUPUS! For
More information contact:
Smiths Falls Lupus Support Group P.O.
Box 78 Smiths
Falls, ON.
K7A 4S9 (613)284-8446
GET REFERRED!
Find your local
LUPUS CLINIC!
Ottawa- RIVERSIDE HOSP.
The
more common symptoms of Lupus are:
1.Pain in the joints of
the hands, arms, shoulders, feet, legs, hips or jaw which may move from
joint to joint and may be accompanied by swelling, redness and
heat
2. A red rash
across the upper
cheeks
and over the bridge of the nose
3. An unusual and excessive reaction to sunlight
4. A red scaly rash on the face, scalp, ears, arms or
chest
5.Small,
usually painless, sores found on the
moist lining of
the nose and mouth
6.Chest
pain that worsens when breathing in or
lying down
7.Weight
gain and swelling of the feet and legs
which is caused by decrease in kidney function
8.Seizures
or severe mental illness
9. A
decrease in the number of red or
white blood cells or platelets
10.Presence
of certain factors in
the blood,
specifically the LE cell, anti-native DNA auto antibodies, anti-Sm
auto antibodies or a positive test for syphilis. (A falsely
positive syphilis test indicates an abnormality in the immune response.
There is no relationship between lupus and venereal diseases.)
11.
Presence of antinuclear
antibodies (ANA) in the blood
Living WELL with Lupus
Controlling flares is the key in the day to day management of Lupus.
Measures must be taken to avoid the triggers. Sun exposure, excessive
fatigue, uncontrolled stress, poor diet, and lifestyle habits - such as
smoking or excessive alcohol use - are factors that can contribute to
Lupus flares. Lifestyle changes may be necessary to void these
triggers.
Steps to be taken may include:
Avoidance of excessive sun exposure
and
regular application of sun screens. Regular exercise to prevent
muscle weakness and fatigue. Eat a well balanced diet and avoid
fad diets. Obtain adequate restful sleep Alleviate the
effects of stress with support groups, member organizations,
concealing, and talking with family and friends. Eliminate
negative habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol, not taking
prescribed medication in correct amounts, and postponing regular
medical check-ups.
Learn about Lupus and it's management.
Consult a physician about birth control and the timing of
pregnancy, (I have had three sons after I was told not to have
any). Use appropriate judgment about
complimentary therapies.
Be positive, have hope, and find joy in your life..
Most people can lead
normal, fulfilling
lives if
they follow the instructions of their doctors, take their medication(s)
as prescribed, and seek medical attention for unexpected side effects
of a medication or for new symptoms.
New Research brings
unexpected findings each
year. The scientific investigation into the cause, cure, diagnosis and
treatment of Lupus during the last decade by researchers around
the world, including Canada, has been significant.
Extensive research is
continuing today. In many
treatment centers, patient information is collected and stored in data
banks. Analysis of this information is providing insight into the
disease and the tools to make treatment choices.
Greater awareness,
better diagnostic
techniques, new medications, and improved treatment regimes bring hope
and the promise of a cure to all those afflicted by Lupus.
80% to
90% of persons with Lupus can now look forward to a normal life span.
Find a
good Dr. Or a Lupus Clinic.
Find a Support Group.....
BREATHE....
YOUR NOT ALONE!