Connected Rheumatology

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Autoimmune Lifestyle

The 2 Essential Vitamins for Lupus

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Living with lupus can present numerous challenges, from managing symptoms to navigating treatment options. A big worry for everyone with lupus is the number of medications required to control inflammation and everyone is looking for a “natural alternative.” Treading through the wild west of the supplement marketplace can be tricky, but there are two vital vitamins that CAN help lupus. 

Understanding Lupus: A Complex Autoimmune Journey

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, and organs. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. Managing lupus requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both symptoms and underlying inflammation.

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Understanding and Managing Dry Eye in Autoimmune Conditions

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Whether you’re dealing with dry eye as a standalone problem or as a symptom of an autoimmune condition like lupus, dry eye can be incredibly frustrating and uncomfortable. Let’s shed some light on this issue and offer practical tips for managing it effectively.

What is Dry Eye?

First things first, let’s talk about what dry eye actually is. Dry eye, also known as dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is compromised. This can lead to itchiness, redness, irritation,  or gritty sensations in the eyes but can also cause increased watering of the eyes.

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Navigating Travel with Lupus

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Living with lupus presents its own set of challenges, but it shouldn’t hinder your ability to explore the world and indulge in your wanderlust. Although it may look different than pre-lupus days, travel is still something those with lupus can enjoy. All it takes is a little planning. 

Managing Lupus Medications

One of the primary concerns when traveling with lupus is figuring out how to manage your meds. It’s crucial to establish a consistent medication routine before embarking on your journey, if you aren’t great at taking your meds at home, you certainly won’t be while away! 

Avoid scheduling travel shortly after starting new lupus medications, as it may take time to adjust your dose and determine if it’s working. Always make sure you have an ample supply of medications for the duration of your trip, including emergency packs such as prednisone.

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Heartburn with Autoimmune Conditions

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Today I’m diving into a topic that affects many of us but often goes unnoticed in those with autoimmune conditions: heartburn, or as it’s medically known, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). 

We’re reviewing all things GERD and unpacking why it matters, especially for those with autoimmunity. We’ll also offer some practical tips for managing this often-overlooked aspect of our health

What Exactly is Heartburn?

Heartburn occurs when stomach contents flow back up into your esophagus, causing discomfort, burning sensations, and sometimes a sour taste in your mouth. While it may seem like just a normal part of life, it’s more prevalent among those with autoimmune conditions than you might think.

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Hospitalized with autoimmune disease

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The truth is, only a minority of patients with autoimmune disease will ever really need to put this information in action. When you are hospitalized with an autoimmune condition you feel scared and helpless. Knowing what to expect and how best to take care of yourself during and after your hospital stay BEFORE it ever happens is self-care every autoimmune patient needs. 

Regardless of the incredible advancements we’ve made in rheumatology, sometimes the safest place for an autoimmune patient is the hospital. This could be to receive IV (intravenous) treatments, to undergo certain tests quickly or to stabilize and monitor worrisome vital signs. Autoimmune patients, in particular, can find themselves needing the hospital as there is a wide variety of symptoms possible.

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