Kaleidoscope Blog

One of the more common overlapping conditions with some of us living with lupus, is Raynauld’s Phenomenon.  This blog describes the condition, what to look for, and how it can be managed. Contents: Introduction Raynaud’s Phenomenon and its Symptoms What causes Raynaud’s Phenomenon? How is Raynaud’s Phenomenon diagnosed? Treating Raynaud’s Phenomenon Preventing or Minimizing Symptoms…

It is the beginning of the 2022-23 flu season, and while we still deal with the the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic – here are some important things to think about concerning the flu, vaccinations and lupus. If you have lupus, you should strongly consider speaking to your doctor about getting a seasonal flu vaccine.  In…

While living lupus-free is the ideal goal, what is the optimal, achievable goal for most individuals living with lupus in the here-and-now? Achieving Lupus Low Disease Activity State (LLDAS) is key to feeling your best with a minimum of symptoms and medications in order to maintain a good quality of life. What does LLDAS look like,…

According to recent estimates, there are over 300,000 mobile health apps available to the consumer.  What should you consider before downloading an app, and which ones could help you the most with tracking and managing your healthcare? Let’s take a look! Introduction The Latest Mobile Health Apps for Individuals with Lupus The Pros and Cons…

At Kaleidoscope Fighting Lupus, we rigorously stay up-to-date on the latest lupus treatments and therapy strategies.  In this article, we explore the uses of cannabis and its derivatives.  The following is a brief overview that may begin to answer some questions that you may have. Introduction How can cannabis and its derivatives effectively treat lupus…

Researchers of a 2017 meta-study published in the journal BMC Psychiatry found that approximately 25% 0f individuals with lupus experience depression. You may be one of those individuals who suffer from this often debilitating condition, especially when trying to come to terms with having lupus. Why does this happen and what can you do to…

The unrelenting exhaustion of lupus fatigue affects up to 80% of those living with SLE.  Read on to learn what the medical community has to say about its causes, symptoms and some of the best ways to cope with this extremely common and sometimes debilitating condition. Introduction What are the causes and symptoms of lupus…

Hitting the hay, getting forty winks, waiting for a visit from Mr. Sandman – however you may coyly try to catch up or sneak up on sleep, it may still evade you if you are an individual with lupus. Why is the ability to fall into a deep slumber so difficult when you feel so…

A good diet should be a priority for everyone. However, when there are complex lupus symptoms to manage, you have to go above and beyond the basic nutritional guidelines. This isn’t always and easy thing to do. Introduction Basic Dietary Guidelines to Follow When You Have Lupus The Impact of Good Nutrition on Lupus Dietary…

More than 50% of those with lupus experience some kind of digestive system disorder.  Here is an overview of this complex part of the human body and how it can be affected by lupus, lupus medications and other conditions associated with SLE. Introduction Basics of the Digestive System General Effects of Lupus and Medications Specific…

As if you don’t feel bad enough between the fatigue, lupus brain fog and chronic pain, you may also have weight issues to deal with. Whether you have the challenge of keeping the weight on or off, here are some important things to consider! Introduction What causes weight fluctuations in lupus? How can you manage…

The song “Summertime,” made famous by the incomparable Ella Fitzgerald, starts like this: “Summertime, and the livin’ is easy… Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high…” Now, If you have lupus or another lupus overlap disease, you may relate MORE with lyrics like this: “Summertime, and the livin’ is weezy… Joints are hurtin’ and…

Getting diagnosed with lupus is scary and upsetting enough without the added stress of potential hair loss. The physical ramifications of what systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can do to the body internally are indeed very scary. But the emotional toll of looking in the mirror and seeing a dramatic change in our external appearance is…

At least half of individuals with lupus have the malar – or butterfly – rash. Read on to learn more about this common, characteristic condition for those living with lupus. Introduction Causes of the Malar Rash Diagnosing Malar Rash and Lupus Treating and Preventing Malar rash Mental Health and Malar Rash Dr. Nisha Desai:  Lupus…

If you have lupus, you might be photosensitive – meaning you have an unusually strong reaction to sunlight.  In fact, about two-thirds of the people with lupus are UV light-sensitive.  Many experience an increase in lupus symptoms after being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, either from the sun or from artificial light. Are you photosensitive?…

Set yourself up for success by reviewing the Kaleidoscope Fighting Lupus travel guide!   Preparing The Flight The Hotel Room Getting Around Town The Food The Medications In Case of an Emergency This time of year, many people enjoy traveling.  Exploring different places, cultures, foods and sights can be inspiring and life-changing. However, the stress…

Lupus not only can have a profound impact on your physical health, emotional well-being, and personal relationships, it can also have a profound impact on your work and professional life. Introduction Working with Your Employer to Raise Awareness and Feel Valued Making the ADA Work for You Alternative Work Environments When Working isn’t an Option…

Whether you consider your family as the family you were born or married into, the one you’ve created with your partner or spouse, or one you’ve hand-picked from close friends over the years, the strong support system these people provide in your life is as vital to your health and well-being as any medication that…

As a musician, rapper, recording engineer, and composer, Skrill-Dilly (née Andrés Kemp), 29,  is used to marathon recording sessions, frequent travel, and a physically demanding lifestyle. There was a time when you couldn’t keep him away from the strip club. If there were dollars to be tossed, a party to be turned out, or bottles to…

Lupus is not a women’s disease.  It is a disease that can affect any demographic category and gender, though it affects women the most. This article outlines how to recognize the symptoms of lupus in men and why they experience lupus differently compared to women. Introduction Why is SLE less prevalent in males? Symptoms of…