Kaleidoscope Blog

When B cells and T cells don’t know when to quit – the result – is lupus.  Both are specialized blood cells that are critical for a healthy immune system, but they also cause the damage that comes with lupus.  Read on to learn more about how these cells are supposed to defend the body,…

More than one in three of all those with lupus experience urinary tract infections (UTIs) – far more than the general public.  They are among the most common reasons for lupus hospitalization and if not treated early, can lead to serious damage.  Read on find out about the causes, symptoms and treatments for UTIs and…

Having lupus increases the risk of developing other autoimmune diseases, like celiac disease – by 30% or more. Read on to find out more celiac disease, gluten and what they could mean for those with lupus. Introduction to Lupus and Celiac disease What if I have lupus and think I have celiac disease? More about…

If you have lupus, you are likely already using NSAIDs – nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.  They are the most widely used pharmaceuticals for treating the most common symptoms of lupus – pain and inflammation.  Yet, what do we really know about them, and what should we know?  Read on to find out! Introduction What are NSAIDs…

Approximately 10% to 25% of those with lupus nephritis may develop end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and require dialysis. If you have SLE and need dialysis, read on to find out what it means and how it could affect your life. Introduction to Lupus and Kidney Dialysis What is dialysis? What does dialysis mean for someone…

The World Health Organization estimates that more than 69,000 kidney transplants are performed worldwide. Whether the transplant is from a close friend, relative, or even total stranger, receiving a new kidney can mean getting a new lease on life for those with lupus nephritis and kidney failure. Introduction to Lupus Nephritis and Kidney Transplants How…

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…

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a leading cause of death in SLE and can affect from 40% to 50% of those with lupus. Yet, newly approved drug therapies promise to change the future LN.  Read on to learn more about this dangerous condition and how it can be treated. Introduction: What is lupus nephritis? Who is…

Lupus, and all that comes with it, can have a serious effect on your hair.  Dry, brittle hair that easily breaks off is one aspect that can really be alarming.  However, there are simple things you can do to lessen the damage.  Continue reading to find out why ”lupus hair” happens, and what can you…

You may hold the key to feeling better simply by believing.  Whether through spiritual faith or confidence in medicine, belief can have a powerful healing effect. Introduction to Lupus and the Power of Belief The Biology and Psychology of Belief How can I improve my attitude and my lupus symptoms? In Conclusion Introduction to Lupus…

Few can argue that 2020 has been a year unlike any other. Feelings of isolation may be amplified now that it’s the holiday season, and if you have lupus, these feelings may be stronger than ever. Introduction Reframing Your Thinking 10 Self-Care Habits To Carry You Through the Holidays Do Onto Others In Conclusion Introduction…

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…

It is estimated that over 70% of those with SLE experience some kind of headaches at one time or another throughout the course of the disease. Do you suffer and wonder why your head pounds, making you feel miserable? Read on to find out why. Introduction What are the most common types of headaches for…

The human body has over 600 lymph nodes, and during a lupus flare, every single one of those 600 lymph nodes can react and become swollen.  And if that isn’t enough, lymph nodes are only one part of a vast network of tissues and pathways that make up the lymphatic system – a key player…

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…

“The average woman experiences around 450 periods in her lifetime.”  That means women spend nearly 10 years of their life on their period.  Since 90% of individuals with lupus are women of childbearing age (15-44), it stands to reason that lupus may somehow impact menstruation. If so, what’s the relationship between the two? Introduction What…

How many of us NEED a cup of coffee to start our day? Yet, what does it mean to consume coffee while living with lupus? The medical community is beginning to ask that question as well. Read on and find out about coffee and its impact on lupus. Introduction What Makes Coffee, Coffee? Coffee and…

Similar to “friendly fire,” with lupus, the body is constantly attacked by its own immune system, resulting in a series of reactionary, inflammatory responses. Understanding what can trigger these responses may help individuals with SLE play a greater role in the management of their own health. Introduction What is inflammation, and how does it relate…

It is estimated that up to 75% of individuals with lupus experience symptoms related to the brain. While it is unclear what directly causes these symptoms, researchers agree that this is an area for continued research.   Introduction Anatomy of the Brain and its Role in the Central Nervous System What are the symptoms of…

Did you know, that approximately half of individuals with lupus develop heart complications, which include rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation?  Learning more about the association between atrial fibrillation, lupus and how hydroxychloroquine may prove to be a valuable tool in symptom management. Introduction Symptoms, Causes and Risk Factors for Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosing and Treating…