Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack its own immune system. Lupus symptoms come and go, depending largely on diet and lifestyle factors. Natural lupus treatment can help reduce inflammation in the body to limit flare up's and help lupus patients manage their symptoms. (1)
Lupus Symptoms
- Extreme fatigue
- Recurring fever
- Muscle and joint pain
- Poor circulation
- Skin rashes
- Photosensitivity
- Respiratory and heart symptoms
- Swelling and fluid retention
- Poor fluid production
- Digestive problems
- Insomnia
- Hair loss
- Loss of libido
- Headaches
- Ulcers
- Mood changes
Lupus Complications
- Lung damage: Vanishing or shrinking lung syndrome can develop when the diaphragmatic muscles become weak. This condition causes shortness of breath and a higher susceptibility to infections. (2)
- Kidney damage: A type of kidney inflammation called nephritis can delveop when the kidneys cannot properly filter toxins and waste from the blood.
- Metabolic and thyroid disorders: Lupus increases the risk for autoimmune thyroid disease.
- Connective tissue and nerve damage: Lupus can cause damage to the spinal cord and brain.
- Increased risk of heart disease: Long-term inflammation can cause damage to the heart, blood vessels and the tissues surrounding the heart. (3)
- Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: This condition involves skin-related symptoms. (4)
- Neonatal lupus: Neonatal lupus occurs when a mother with lupus passes certain antibodies to her unborn child. It can cause liver problems, low blood counts and other minor symptoms. (5)
Lupus Treatment
1. Prevent Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiencies weaken the immune system, which can cause fatigue and make the body more susceptible to illness. To help keep lupus symptoms at bay, eat a nutritious diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables and healthy fats. Some of the best foods for lupus treatment include coconut oil, nuts and seeds. (6) Check out this Lupus Diet to learn more.
2. Get Enough Sleep
Stress and lack of sleep can cause fatigue and low energy levels. To help reduce the risk of anxiety, depression, confusion and lupus flare up's, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.3. Avoid Smoking and Toxins
Smoking raises the risk of lupus complications. It increases lung damage and may lead to heart disease, stroke and infections. Cigarettes weaken the immune system, slow down blood flow, increase blood pressure and worsen inflammation. (7)4. Stay Active
Staying active is an important part of lupus treatment. Exercise can help keep the joints flexible, strengthen the heart and lungs, reduce stress levels and improve immune function. Low-impact activities may provide the most benefit. Try walking, cycling, swimming, yoga, dancing, water aerobics or Pilates. (8)
