General Information

Low-Dose Naltrexone and Lupus

The Use of Low-Dose Naltrexone for Lupus and Other Overlap Conditions WHAT IS LDN? Low-dose naltrexone or LDN is a medication that is getting more attention because of preliminary research showing promise for use with diseases like multiple sclerosis, some cancers, HIV/AIDS and other chronic pain conditions.  Over the last several months, we, at Kaleidoscope…

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There’s An App for THAT! Living With Lupus in the Age of Technology

Note:  For the latest in smart phone apps specific to lupus, check out our updated blog by clicking here Lupus and Mobile Tech – Smartphone Apps and Managing Your Health Contents: EPA’s SunWise UV Index App MANGO Health App Lupus Tracker Pro Image InBox The Lupus Companion Other Helpful Apps     In the age…

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Lupus and Blood Disorders

It is estimated that 85% of lupus patients will experience some form of unhealthy blood condition. In this article, we will take a closer at the blood disorder risks, symptoms and treatments for individuals living with lupus.   Introduction What is blood? What causes a blood disorder? Diagnosing Blood Disorders Common Blood Disorders in Lupus…

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100 Years of Lupus

INTRODUCTION If you were to question people on the street about the discovery of lupus, if they knew what it was in the first place, they would probably assume that it was a modern day disease.  That assumption makes sense as to why so many people still don’t know what it is and what it…

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STOP! LOOK! AND LISTEN! How to Get Your Doctor to Take You Seriously… In a Seriously Short Office Visit

Contents: How to Get Your Doctor to Take You Seriously… In a Seriously Short Office Visit Write Out Your Questions In Advance Speak Up! Check Your Fear At the Door Conclusion   How to Get Your Doctor to Take You Seriously… In a Seriously Short Office Visit Physicians now, more than ever, are in a…

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Lupus and Epigenetics

Lupus is complex!  Epigenetics is  a new frontier in lupus research and therapy that combines what we know about genetics with all of the environmental and lifestyle factors that can affect our health.  It may be the key to not only unlocking some of the mysteries of the disease, but also its cure! Introduction An…

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Rituxan and Lupus

Is It Lupus Chemo? INTRODUCTION Before diving into this blog topic, I thought I knew the exact waters I was entering.  I mean, pretty clear in my mind, Rituxan is “lupus chemo” right?  Many of you (like me), may be shocked to find out that although Rituxan is used to treat cancer, it is not classified…

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Alternative Lupus Treatments and Therapies

Contents: Complementary Medicine Complementary and Alternative Supplements and Treatments for Lupus Alternative Lupus Therapies/Treatments Complementary/Alternative Lupus Treatment: Precautions   Complementary Medicine In our blog, Lupus Treatment Options: Lupus Medications, we covered many of the most common pharmaceutical treatments for lupus.  We also recently posted a blog on the first FDA approved lupus drug in 50…

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Your First Visit to the Rheumatologist

You just scheduled your first appointment with a rheumatologist – now what?  Whether you think you have lupus or not, you are probably feeling scared, confused, and tired of filling out repetitive forms … and maybe a bit alone.   Your body, your entire world may seem out of control.  Yet, you can take back…

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Avascular Necrosis and Lupus

Osteoporosis is probably the most well-known medical condition related to bone-loss.  However for those living with lupus, avascular necrosis (AVN) is also a concern – affecting approximately 10% of those living with SLE.  What is AV?  What symptoms should you look for, and how can you prevent or treat damage to your bones?  Read on…

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