Managing pain
Are you in pain?
Is it chronic or does it occur in flares?
For 60 percent of those affected, joint pain or joint inflammation are the first symptoms. These often prompt a visit to the doctor.
The diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) can be difficult for you. In the beginning, not all classification criteria are always met.
Mild pain
There are many aids and strategies that relieve mild rheumatic pain.
For aching hands, for example, there are arthritis gloves. They provide warmth and promote blood circulation. For swelling or redness, cold applications such as the time-tested curd compresses are recommended. Aching feet can be rubbed with coconut oil.
Exercise also helps against pain. To this end, Lupus Europe, in collaboration with physiotherapists, has created short videos. Try to incorporate some of these exercises into your daily routine.
You can find the videos at the link.
Chronic pain is burdensome. Naturally, you are constantly looking for strategies to bring you relief. Pain acceptance is one of them; it reduces pain intensity, decreases stress and anxiety, allows for a reduction in pain medication, alleviates depression, and strengthens self-efficacy.
Pain acceptance by no means means that you ignore or simply put up with pain. Rather, it is a strategy for dealing better with pain. The goal is not to let the pain consume you and to maintain as much quality of life as possible.
If the pain becomes too severe, qualified doctors can prescribe medication.
You do not have to suffer unnecessarily.
Find the methods that help you best.