Lupus: Prevention and Complications

Prevention Tips

Taking care of oneself is one of the best ways patients can manage the disease. Lupus is a systemic problem; to improve the function of the immune system, patients need to:

• Get enough rest, preferably 8-9 hours per night
• Exercise regularly, but avoid extreme fatigue. Too much is as bad as too little
• Donot smoke and limit alcohol use
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet
• Reduce stress and use relaxation methods, such as meditation or yoga 

Watch Out

• Swollen feet and hands
• Puffiness around your eyes
• Changes in urination (blood or foam in the urine)

When to See Doctor

Consult a doctor if you have symptoms like

• Chest pain or pressure, or a strange feeling in the chest
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain, pressure, or a strange feeling in the back, neck, jaw, or upper belly, or one or both shoulders or arms
• Sudden numbness, tingling, or weakness in joints
• Blurred vision