General Information

If you have lupus, you must be wondering, is it safe to get a COVID-19 vaccination?  The short answer is yes, but there are some facts you need to know as you consult with your healthcare provider on taking the vaccine.  Read on to find out more! Introduction I have SLE; is the COVID-19 vaccine…

Are you over 60 and living with lupus? Even it you are not over 60 yet, it is critical to know how aging affects those of us living with lupus. Read on and find out the facts about lupus, aging and immunosenescence. Introduction Lupus, Aging and Immunosenescence Staying Healthy While Aging with Lupus In Conclusion…

Today, millions are receiving at least some of their healthcare virtually – through online medical visits. Read about this rapidly evolving practice, and how it can support healthcare for individuals with lupus. Introduction Telemedicine Versus In-Office Visits for Chronic Illness The Pros and Cons of Telemedicine Telemedicine and HIPAA How to Prepare for a Virtual…

You’re in remission – that is fantastic! So why do you feel so guilty? Keep reading in order to learn more about lupus remission guilt and how to manage these feelings. Introduction What is Lupus Remission Guilt? Shame vs. Guilt in Lupus Remission Managing Lupus Remission Guilt In Conclusion   Introduction Living with chronic illness…

Lately, watching the evening news includes watching a myriad of drug commercials and hearing a litany of side effects, which often seem worse than the illnesses the medications are supposed to treat. Who knew that some of these drugs might even induce lupus? Introduction What medications cause DIL? What are the symptoms of DIL? How…

Approximately 1.3 million individuals in the US, and 23 million worldwide have rheumatoid arthritis. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of this autoimmune disease that overlaps with lupus. Introduction Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis as an Overlap Disease of…

Scleroderma is one of the most common “overlap diseases” for those living with lupus, with about 20% of those with scleroderma also having lupus.  Learn about the complexities of scleroderma including its symptoms, possible complications and the most common ways to manage this autoimmune disease. Introduction Types of Scleroderma Symptoms of Scleroderma Causes of Scleroderma…

For many around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has required restrictions on travel, work, school and gatherings in public areas!  Feelings of uncertainty and of being cut off from others are understandable, but there are also ways to find emotional relief! Introduction Isolation Anxiety and Fear In Conclusion Introduction The COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) pandemic is…

We at Kaleidoscope Fighting Lupus are monitoring the ever-changing news concerning the use of the antimalarial drugs chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) for treating the COVID-19 virus during the current global pandemic. Plaquenil, is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for lupus.  It is primarily used in the prevention and treatment of malaria, but as…

An estimated 80% of individuals with lupus will experience brain fog. Learning what may contribute to brain fog and how to manage it can improve day-to-day quality of life.   Introduction Characteristics of Lupus Brain Fog What Causes Lupus Brain Fog? Testing Cognitive Function Managing Lupus Brain Fog Impact of Lupus Brain Fog on Quality…