Is It Lupus?

When symptoms appear, it’s called a “flare.” These signs may come and go. You may have swelling and rashes one week and no symptoms at all the next. You may find that your symptoms flare after you’ve been out in the sun or after a hard day at work.

Even if you take medicine for lupus, you may find that there are times when the symptoms become worse. Learning to recognize that a flare is coming can help you take steps to cope with it. Just before a flare, many people with lupus:

feel very tiredhave painhave a rashhave a feverhave stomach discomforthave headachesfeel dizziness

Steps to prevent flares, such as limiting the time you spend in the sun and getting enough rest and quiet, can also be helpful.

Learn to recognize that a flare is coming.Talk with your doctor.Try to set realistic goals and priorities.Limit the time you spend in the sun.Maintain a healthy diet.Develop coping skills to help limit stress.Get enough rest and quiet.Moderately exercise when possible.Develop a support system by surrounding yourself with people you trust and feel comfortable with (family, friends, etc.)

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