3 Apps I’m Using Right Now for Lupus

As lupus patients in the year 2018, we have incredible access to technology that can help us get through the day with this difficult and frustrating disease. One of my favorite technological advancements that helps me on a regular basis is the use of phone apps. Yes, there are countless phone apps at this point that have flooded the market, but which ones top the list when it comes to helping someone with a chronic illness?

Personally, I gravitate toward apps that allow me to track and journal my symptoms, see which medications I have taken, track my nutrition and food intake, help me meditate and zone out, and even analyze my sleeping patterns. At this point, there is likely an app for any needs you may have.

So, if you are a technology fan like myself, and tend to have your phone with you at all times, check out my three favorite apps I am using right now that might help you get through the day a little easier.

Flaredown

Flaredown is by far one of my favorite apps. Before using Flaredown, I was an avid fan of journals and tracked my data for years via this method. It provided me with incredible information about my body.
Flaredown is useful for anyone suffering from chronic illness who is in need of tracking their data to prevent flares. Vivid graphs and charts allow for a clear understanding of what trends are occurring in someone’s body, health, and life, in addition to highlighting what effects may be occurring due to medication.

Another neat option with Flaredown is the ability to share your personal data with scientists and researchers (anonymously) to fuel research. It is also a great app for tracking food, activity level, and more. Plus, it is available on Android and iOS. Learn more at Flaredown’s website.

Stop, Breathe & Think

Stop, Breathe & Think might be perfect for my fellow spoonies who enjoy some relaxation time mixed in with a short-guided meditation or mindfulness exercise. This app is really designed and geared towards our emotional well-being and keeping emotions in check. There is even a long emotion adjective list for you to choose your current mood from, which will then tailor a meditation that is right for you.

For those who want to engage in a little activity rather than just pure meditation, be sure to check out their acupressure and yoga library. It is available for Android and iOS. Learn more at Stop, Breathe & Think’s website.

Medisafe

Personally, I think Medisafe is the best option for those who grab a medicine bottle and say, “Oh wait, did I take this already?” This has happened to me more times than I would like to share, and it worries me because I take certain medications that could have serious side effects if I doubled up. So, Medisafe helps you manage your medications and keeps everything organized. Plus, it can share information with your physician and pharmacist, helping you to stay on top of your prescription needs and letting your doctor know how you are doing.

I don’t think I need to go into how being compliant with our medications can lead to fewer flares and a decrease in symptoms — we’ve already been told many times before. But I will say that staying on top of our medication schedule is one of the most important things we do every day, so why not get a little help? Medisafe is available on Android and iOS. Check out more at www.Medisafe.com.

While there are probably a dozen apps I would love to share with you, these are some of my favorites at the moment. Other options you may want to look into include Headspace or Calm for meditation and mindfulness sessions; Health Log (not available in the U.S.) to track health events, doctor’s appointments, nutrition and more; and My Pain Diary (pretty sure that title says it all).

Which apps have become a mainstay in your daily routine? I’d love to hear more about them in the comments below!

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Note: Lupus News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Lupus News Today, or its parent company, Bionews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to lupus