Kaleidoscope Blog

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…

It is estimated that almost one-third of all people on earth have at least one tattoo … including many living with lupus.  You may have heard conflicting opinions on whether someone with an autoimmune disease should get a tattoo.  To help, here are some of the most important facts and safety concerns to consider before…

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…

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 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  …

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…

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…

Lupus flares are the often unpredictable and debilitating bouts of symptoms that afflict many living with lupus.  For some they may be rare events, but for others, they are an ever-present source of worry.  This is an overview of lupus flares and suggestions for how to reduce their frequency and severity. Introduction What is a…

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…