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Non Drug Pain Management Ideas: Coping with Lupus in the daytime

When someone is diagnosed with Lupus, the problems associated with that condition can be problematic anytime-- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  In a post earlier this week, coping skills to help with Lupus problems that are common upon awakening.  Today's post will focus on the issues surrounding this chronic health condition during the waking hours.




Sunlight exposure can be a real problem for those who are diagnosed with Lupus. It is important to use "all possible tools in the toolbox" if possible. Tinted windows are one example of defense. Clothing that affords some degree of sun protection can also be of help. (Hint: look for tight weaves of fabric in darker colors for best protection. Test by holding fabric up to light--if you can see through the fabric, the protection is insufficient.) Stay out of the sun when it is most intense-- usually between 10 am and 4 pm daily.  If you do plan to be out, sunscreen SPF 30 or higher during this hours affords some protection. Even if you aren't in the sun, UV lighting at the office or workplace can be a problem, so do what you can to keep away from exposure. This may require moving your desk away from a problem light source or installing UV shields on lamps.

The fatigue that accompanies Lupus can make it difficult to exercise.  When faced with this struggle, try to commit to only 5 minutes of exercise. If you feel able to go on after those first minutes, go for it. That initial 5 minutes might just give you the energy boost you need.  Gentle aerobics, such as walking, are good for Lupus sufferers.  Other options are yoga and water exercise, such as swimming laps.

Folks with Lupus can have difficulties with concentration. Some ideas to help: crossword puzzles (to help keep memory sharp): focusing on one task at a time; keeping to-do lists and calendars (preferably all in one place); and making efforts to get a good night's rest.

Learn to conserve energy by finding ways to make household chores more efficient.  Trying to set things up at night for breakfast the next day, cooking meals ahead, doing meal prep work ahead, having the kids help with chores. etc.

Lupus can be an issue in the workplace--lighting issues, concentration problems, and the fatigue that accompany Lupus may become problematic.  Talk to the boss about your particular issues, and work with them find ways to help keep your work productive.  You are covered by the Americans With Disabilities Act, so legally they are required to assist with accommodations. Use organizational tools--such as keeping everything in one calendar, notebooks, and recording meetings if necessary. The key here is to rely on your writings and recordings so your memory issues do not cause problems!

Make an effort to eat healthy snacks during the day--fruits, vegetables, yogurt, cheese and nuts are good for this...





 Sources: Wikimedia, WebMD





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