FAQs - Living with Lupus
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I was diagnosed with systemic lupus. Are there any do's or don'ts with regard to: +
Diet - There is no such thing as a lupus diet. People with lupus should consider following a diet that is… Read More -
Flares. How can I tell if my lupus is active? +
When a lupus flare occurs, people will usually notice a return of the symptoms they experienced previously, but sometimes they… Read More -
When should I call the Doctor? +
You should call the doctor about any change in symptoms or worsening of your lupus as soon as possible. You… Read More -
How long will a flare last? How long will a remission last? +
There is no way of predicting how long a flare will last when it comes, nor is there any way… Read More -
I've had lupus for 2 years and haven't had a remission yet. Is this possible? +
Yes. Lupus takes a highly variable course. Some people will have a course where their lupus flares-up and then simmers… Read More -
What can I expect in the future? Will I be able to have a family? +
Unless there is moderate to severe organ involvement or if a person must take immunosuppressive/immunomodulating medications that would place the… Read More -
Will I be able to continue working full-time? +
Many people who have lupus are able to continue working full-time. However, since lupus affects people to varying degrees there… Read More -
Will I live long enough to see my children grow up? +
The majority of people living with lupus today, in fact 80-90% of them, can expect to live a normal lifespan Read More -
Will I become crippled and end up in a wheelchair? +
People are frequently concerned that the arthritis associated with lupus will result in crippling deformities. Lupus arthritis generally does not… Read More -
Is there anything I can do to alleviate the pain when the pills don't seem to work and I can't get in to see the doctor for a few days? +
Some people find relief from heat, some people find relief from cold. Others find that if they can find a… Read More -
I have heard that dental fillings may trigger lupus. Is there anything to this? +
At the present time, we do not have any scientific data that indicates that dental fillings may act as a… Read More -
I have heard that hair dyes may trigger flares in lupus. Does this mean I should stop dying my hair? +
One study indicated an association between the use of hair dyes and lupus symptoms, but subsequent studies found no association… Read More -
Can lupus cause memory problems? +
At some point during the course of their lupus, up to 50% of lupus patients describe feelings of confusion, fatigue,… Read More
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