Well-being and quality of life
Quality of life
Health-related quality of life is now a key consideration in healthcare, where it is recorded and measured. It refers to the subjectively perceived impact of health and illness on various areas of life.
Health-related quality of life is influenced by an individual’s health situation and medical treatment. The success of a treatment also depends on the quality of life. Measurement methods exist to record subjective statements from patients. These are being used more frequently in nursing and medical treatment, complementing traditional physical parameters such as laboratory results.
The fact that quality of life is being considered in medicine represents a paradigm shift. Chronic illnesses are on the rise, and their impact on quality of life and well-being is now being monitored and measured.
Particularly with chronic illnesses such as lupus, the goal of treatment is to achieve the highest possible quality of life.
Exercise despite pain
Exercise is very important for people with lupus.
Many people with lupus suffer from pain and fatigue and therefore stop exercising. However, exercise is very important. It helps prevent muscle loss, improve general physical fitness, maintain joint function, and reduce fatigue. Strength training can also help increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Adapt your sporting activities to your needs. Listen to your body. Discuss the appropriate type of sport, regularity, duration, and intensity with your doctor or physiotherapist.
Low-impact sports suitable for people with lupus include swimming, yoga, walking, or Pilates.
Do not engage in intensive sport during an active flare-up and do not overexert your body.
Exercise plays an important role. Here are some reasons why exercise is important for people with lupus and can lead to improved well-being:
- Regular exercise can improve endurance, strength, and flexibility. This helps people with lupus better manage their daily activities and increase their quality of life.
- Exercise can help maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
- Moderate exercise can support the immune system and reduce inflammation. This is particularly important for an autoimmune disease like lupus.
- Moderate exercise can help reduce fatigue and increase energy levels. Although rest is important, this improves overall well-being.
- Exercise can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost self-esteem. This contributes to better overall psychological well-being.
Nutrition
The importance of a healthy diet
An anti-inflammatory diet is recommended for people with lupus and people with rheumatism in general. It reduces inflammation and supports the immune system. Symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and rashes may potentially improve as a result.
Avoid pro-inflammatory foods. Important nutrients include antioxidants, omega‑3 fatty acids, and vitamins C, D, and E. Zinc and selenium also play a major role.
When starting a dietary change or adjustment, it is advisable to be accompanied by a nutritionist. They will work with you to create an individual nutrition plan and ensure that all important nutrients are included in the correct amounts.
Here you will find recipes and further information:
LUPUSLOG
Diary functions and progress charts
More information on downloading LUPUSLOG can be found in the relevant app stores on your phone.
Diary and progress charts
The diary is easy to use thanks to intuitive user guidance, simple symbols, and clear graphics. You can individually compile the personal symptoms you wish to track or those you have defined with your doctor. This gives you and your medical professionals a clear overview of health changes in connection with your general well-being.
Export functions
The PDF export function allows you to secure and archive your personal diary entries. All data can be exported as a PDF file and sent, for example, via email.
More information on downloading LUPUSLOG can be found in the relevant app stores on your phone.
