Lupus 101: Explaining Remission to the Recently Diagnosed

Everyone who lives with lupus will experience the disease differently. The symptoms vary and not all people will suffer from the same ones. Remission — the time when lupus isn’t active — also varies greatly from person to person.

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Some lupus patients will suffer from mild symptoms constantly (flares) without any remission; others may have more severe symptoms but have periods of remission.

The frequency of flares and remission depend on the person, but according to the Lupus Foundation of America, the first five years of lupus tend to be the most uncertain — both for the patient and the rheumatologist. This can make treating lupus quite challenging during those initial years.

There are steps lupus patients can take to help stay in remission. These include taking medication as prescribed, not overdoing it, avoiding stress as much as possible, eating well, getting plenty of quality sleep, exercising, maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding UV rays, and bringing any new symptoms — however small — to a doctor’s attention as soon as they appear.

Looking after yourself physically and emotionally will help keep flares at bay and keep you in remission longer, helping you enjoy a fulfilling life with lupus.

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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 another 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.