About Lupus

Finding the right words to put living with lupus in perspective can be difficult.   Spoon Theory to the rescue! What is Spoon Theory? Who is a Spoonie? Life as a Spoonie In Conclusion What is Spoon Theory? In 2003, Christine Miserandino created The Spoon Theory to explain what life is like for someone living…

From ulcers and dry-mouth, to tooth decay and gum disease, lupus can significantly affect your oral and dental health. Read more about the surprisingly complex relationship between lupus and a healthy smile!   Introduction Signs and Symptoms of Oral and Dental Health Issues in Lupus Causes of Oral and Dental Health Issues in Lupus Oral…

You’re in remission – that is fantastic! So why do you feel so guilty? Keep reading and learn more about lupus remission guilt – how to understand it and do your best to manage the feeling. Introduction What is Lupus Remission Guilt? Shame vs. Guilt in Lupus Remission Managing Lupus Remission Guilt In Conclusion  …

Lupus afflicts approximately 5 million people worldwide. Learn more about this chronic illness and how it impacts those who receive the diagnosis. Introduction What causes SLE? How can SLE affect the body systemically? What are the symptoms of SLE? Diagnosing SLE Managing and Treating SLE In Conclusion Introduction Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic…

The American College of Rheumatology’s (ACR), in 1997, approved a specific set of criteria for the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Recently, however, in collaboration with the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR), these criteria have been significantly revised. Read on to learn more about these important changes and how they can affect how lupus…

Commonly characterized by dry eyes and mouth, Sjögren’s syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease that can affect up to 15% of those diagnosed with lupus.  Keep reading to learn more about this complex condition and how it overlaps with SLE. Introduction Causes of Sjögren’s Syndrome Sjögren’s Syndrome as an Overlap of SLE Symptoms of Sjögren’s…

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…

As an individual with lupus, you may find yourself managing additional autoimmune and connective tissue diseases. This article provides a brief overview of these conditions collectively known as lupus overlap diseases and overlap syndrome. Introduction Rheumatoid Arthritis Sjögren’s Syndrome Raynaud’s Phenomenon Scleroderma Mixed Connective Tissue Disease Overlap Syndrome In Conclusion Introduction Several autoimmune, rheumatic and…

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…

Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that impairs of the communication between our central nervous system and the rest of the body. How is this condition implicated in lupus? Introduction Classifying Peripheral Neuropathy What are the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy? What causes peripheral neuropathy? How is peripheral neuropathy diagnosed and treated? Managing the Effects of Peripheral…