As with any disease a lupus patient will want to remain as stress free as possible. Avoid exposing yourself to excess sunlight or using sun block regularly. Steer clear of medications to which you have an allergy. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine is key to staying healthy. Aside from altering your lifestyle, there are certain drugs that prove to be effective for treating different stages and symptoms of lupus. Doctors will decrease the dosages until the meds are no longer necessary.

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammation Drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen are helpful in easing the pain related to muscles, joints and arthritis.

Corticosteroids – Used for the more progressive stages of lupus. These drugs reduce inflammation and restrict your immune system’s activity. (Prednisone)

Acetaminophen – A mild analgesic such as Tylenol is used to reduce the pain associated with lupus.

Antimalarials – Used for the more progressive stages of lupus. These drugs are used for symptoms related to the skin and joints. The drawback is that months could pass before you notice any positive effects of the mediation. (Plaquenil)

Immunosuppressives – Used to treat patients with a kidney or brain abnormality associated with lupus. This form of medication is used to suppress the immune system activity and inflammation. (Imuran or Cytoxan)

Anticoagulants – Used for those with a clotting tendency

Biological Drugs – This form of treatment will prevent the production of antibodies that cause flare-ups; fights certain infections.

Drug-induced Lupus

• Procainamide (heart rhythm abnormalities)
• Hydralazine (high blood pressure)
• Isoniazid (tuberculosis)
• Quinidine (heart rhythm abnormalities)
• Phenytoin (seizures)

Prevent a Flare

• Become familiar with signs of a flare before it happens
• Limit your exposure to sunlight
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Get active – moderate exercise is great for your health and will reduce the risk of your muscles becoming weak and tired.
• Develop useful coping skills to avoid stressing out
• Get plenty of rest
• No smoking
• Use friends and family for stability; you’ll need all the support you can get

Doctors and Specialists

• Rheumatologist
• Dermatologist
• Nephrologist
• Immunologist
• GP (general practitioner)

When you start to notice symptoms, visit any of these doctors. Any of these healthcare professionals or a combination of them can either treat lupus or refer you to someone who can treat the disease.