Living with Lupus

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…

Read More

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….

Read More

Lupus and Pregnancy

If you have lupus, managing pregnancy while managing chronic illness takes a team effort – you don’t have to go it alone. This article will address many of the questions you may have about lupus and pregnancy in order to have informed discussions with your healthcare practitioners about what to expect if you are planning…

Read More

Lupus and Menopause

We are fortunate to live in a day and age when many of us can speak openly about sexual health and well-being, and it’s no longer considered taboo to discuss menopause.  Once whispered under the breath – and never around men – “the change of life” was something you only discussed with your bestie or…

Read More

Lupus and Mobile Tech – Smartphone Apps and Managing Your Health

According to recent estimates, there are over 300,000 mobile health apps available to the consumer.  What should you consider before downloading an app, and which ones could help you the most with tracking and managing your healthcare? Let’s take a look! Introduction The Latest Mobile Health Apps for Individuals with Lupus The Pros and Cons…

Read More

Dealing With a Lupus Depression: How Do You Cope?

Researchers of a 2017 meta-study published in the journal BMC Psychiatry found that approximately 25% 0f individuals with lupus experience depression. You may be one of those individuals who suffer from this often debilitating condition, especially when trying to come to terms with having lupus. Why does this happen and what can you do to…

Read More

Lupus and Nutrition

A good diet should be a priority for everyone. However, when there are complex lupus symptoms to manage, you have to go above and beyond the basic nutritional guidelines. This isn’t always and easy thing to do. Introduction Basic Dietary Guidelines to Follow When You Have Lupus The Impact of Good Nutrition on Lupus Dietary…

Read More

Lupus and the Biology of Digestion

More than 50% of those with lupus experience some kind of digestive system disorder.  Here is an overview of this complex part of the human body and how it can be affected by lupus, lupus medications and other conditions associated with SLE. Introduction Basics of the Digestive System General Effects of Lupus and Medications Specific…

Read More

Lupus and Summer

Summertime … and the livin’ with lupus is… not easy. With the intense sunlight, heat, humidity, wind, pollen and even air pollution, summer can make life miserable for those living with SLE.  Summer conditions can trigger flares and possibly even the disease itself.  To learn how to best manage this time of year, read on. …

Read More

Lupus Hair Loss and Alopecia Explained

Getting diagnosed with lupus is scary and upsetting enough without the added stress of potential hair loss. The physical ramifications of what systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can do to the body internally are indeed very scary. But the emotional toll of looking in the mirror and seeing a dramatic change in our external appearance is…

Read More