The Lupus Foundation is highlighting the personal experiences and perspectives of those living with the disease in a new series titled, “Sharing the Journey.”
Published on the Lupus Foundation's blog, the series features real-world comments from those who live with the effects of the life-altering disease. The site asked users to submit their New Year’s resolutions for managing their Lupus symptoms. The answers were varied and covered a full range of honest advice for others.
“I don't have a New Year’s resolution for managing my lupus symptoms,” wrote Victoria Gibbs, age 31. "Every year, resolutions are often made and seldom kept. Dealing with lupus is not a temporary thing as most resolutions, it’s about making permanent life style changes. At this time, as long as you aren't newly diagnosed with the disease, we already know what our body needs to manage symptoms and prevent flares. I intend to continue focusing on nutrition. With every passing day, I realize more and more the role that proper nutrition plays on my overall wellbeing and success in maintaining control over this disease. I carefully select and think about every piece of food or beverage that I put into my mouth and how it's going to make me feel."
The foundation also offered some tips for better management of Lupus, including starting an exercise routine, ensuring that patients get restful sleep, and ensuring a healthy diet.
The foundation also recommends knowing when to say no to activities, prioritizing health needs, not being afraid to address health concerns, and requesting more information to make informed health care decisions.
