Lupus flares are a sign that your disease activity is increasing. Most patients who have dealt with lupus for some time can tell when a flare is coming on. Sometimes, it’s a surprise.
Although regular doctor visits and medication are effective ways to prevent flares, there are some other things you can do that may also help.
And while, unfortunately, there is little evidence indicating behavioral modifications can affect the rate of lupus flares, it always pays to do what you can to stay healthy and hope for the best.
1. Rest, rest, rest!
If you know a flare is coming on take steps to slow down and give your body a chance to fight the flare. Overworking your body might exacerbate the condition.2. Reduce Stress Levels
Attempt as much as possible to avoid stress and stressful situations (I know, easier said than done, but it does make a difference on your body). Consider techniques like meditation and massage to help slow things down and ease stress levels. If you cannot avoid stress, try to develop a support system to deal with it.3. Exercise Regularly
We don’t need to tell you how important exercise is to overall health. But we will tell you to check with your doctor to see what’s most appropriate for your individual situation. Refer to Techniques No. 1 and 2 for reasons why you want to work with your healthcare team on the exercise technique that’s best for you.4. Follow Doctor’s Orders
Keep lines of communication open with your doctor so that you catch any potential illness or complication in its earliest stages. And other than your lupus meds (over the counter, herbal and prescription), don’t start anything new without talking to your doctor, first. Any new medication can affect your disease’s activity levels. And don’t suddenly stop taking your lupus medication either –- it can trigger a flare. And tell your doctor about any injuries, infections, or sickness you have right away. These can open the door to a flare.5. Keep Covered!
This one is a sure way to stave off a flare. Avoid sun exposure and ultraviolet light, including fluorescent and halogen bulbs. Nearly half of people with lupus are sensitive to this kind of light and –- you guessed it -– it can trigger a flare.Source: Lupus: A Patient Care Guide for Nurses and Other Health Professionals Third Edition, Revised. September 2006.
