General Information

Isolation and Anxiety: Living with Lupus

Many living with lupus suffer from feelings of anxiety and isolation that comes from the pain, fatigue and even uncertainty that SLE can cause.  These feelings of being cut off from others are understandable, but there are also ways to find emotional relief! Introduction Isolation Anxiety and Fear In Conclusion Introduction Individuals with a chronic…

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COVID-19, Plaquenil and Lupus

We at Kaleidoscope Fighting Lupus are monitoring the ever-changing news concerning the use of the antimalarial drugs chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) for treating the COVID-19 virus during the current global pandemic. Plaquenil, is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for lupus.  It is primarily used in the prevention and treatment of malaria, but as…

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Lupus and Brain Fog

An estimated 80% of individuals with lupus will experience brain fog. Learning what may contribute to brain fog and how to manage it can improve day-to-day quality of life.   Introduction Characteristics of Lupus Brain Fog What Causes Lupus Brain Fog? Testing Cognitive Function Managing Lupus Brain Fog Impact of Lupus Brain Fog on Quality…

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Allergies and Lupus

Both allergies and lupus are conditions driven by an overly reactive immune system, and both are seemingly on the increase.  Are they related and why?   Introduction What are the most common types of allergies? What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction? What causes allergies? Testing for Allergies Treating and Preventing Allergic Reactions Allergies…

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Lupus and Anemia

Anemia is the most common blood disorder associated with lupus – affecting over 50% of all those diagnosed.  So, if you have lupus, it is a good idea to review the latest information regarding the symptoms, causes and treatment options for the various forms of anemia. Introduction Symptoms Types of Anemia and Causes Tests and…

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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Lupus

While Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not an overlap disease of lupus, current research is revealing more and more similarities between both conditions and what may cause them. Introduction What causes CFS? What are the symptoms of CFS? How is CFS diagnosed and treated? In Conclusion Introduction In 2015, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) published a…

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Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Lupus

This article examines the relationship between the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and the development of lupus. Introduction Who is at risk, and what causes EBV? What are the Symptoms of EBV? How is EBV diagnosed and treated? What is the relationship between EBV and lupus? In Conclusion   Introduction Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a relatively common…

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Understanding Your Urinalysis

Kidney disease, specifically lupus nephritis, is one of the most common and serious conditions for those diagnosed with lupus.  Timely urinalysis testing is a relatively simple and effective way to help with an early diagnosis that may prevent damage later on.  Here is an overview of what you should know and expect from urinalysis testing….

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Lupus in Children

Child-onset lupus is quite rare, but can be more serious than adult-onset form of the disease.  This article describes the latest information for those who live with lupus at a very early age. Contents: Introduction Symptoms and Causes Diagnosing Lupus in Children What is the treatment for lupus in children? What is the prognosis or…

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Lupus and Low Disease Activity

While living lupus-free is the ideal goal, what is the optimal, achievable goal for most individuals living with lupus in the here-and-now? Achieving Lupus Low Disease Activity State (LLDAS) is key to feeling your best with a minimum of symptoms and medications in order to maintain a good quality of life. What does LLDAS look like,…

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