Lupus & The Summer: 5 Tips for Managing Lupus During the Sunny Season
Summer brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and the allure of outdoor activities. Unfortunately, for lupus patients, the summer season can pose additional challenges.
Therefore, managing heat and sun exposure is crucial for maintaining your health and well-being during these sunny months.
Watch the video: Lupus & The Summer: 5 Tips for Managing Lupus During the Sunny Season
The Impact of Heat and Sun on Lupus
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting multiple body parts, such as your skin, internal organs, and joints.
One of the key issues for lupus patients during the summer is photosensitivity, a condition where the skin reacts abnormally to sunlight.
According to one study, up to 83% of lupus patients experience some form of photosensitivity, which can trigger skin rashes, flares, and systemic symptoms like fatigue and joint pain.
Moreover, heat can exacerbate lupus symptoms. High temperatures and humidity can increase fatigue, dehydration, and heat intolerance, making it harder for you to stay active and enjoy summer activities.
Despite the challenges, there are ways for you to lower your risk of photosensitivity-induced symptoms while still enjoying your favorite activities.
5 Tips for Managing Lupus During the Summer
Avoid Peak Sun Hours
Since the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., try to schedule outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize sun exposure.
If you must be outside during peak hours, seek shade whenever possible.
Wear Protective Clothing
Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Consider investing in clothing with built-in UV protection.
Otherwise, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that can help keep you cool while providing the necessary coverage.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly
Ask your doctor to recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 that you can wear daily, even on cloudy days.
Apply your sunblock generously to all exposed skin and reapply every two hours or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget areas like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.
Stay Hydrated
It’s well-known that dehydration can worsen lupus symptoms, so drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is vital throughout the day.
It’s best to avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration. While eating water-rich fruits and vegetables, like watermelon and cucumber, can help keep you hydrated.
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how your body responds to heat and sun exposure. If you start to feel fatigued, dizzy, or unwell, seek a cool, shaded area and rest. It’s important to balance activity with rest to avoid overexertion, which can trigger lupus flares.
The Role of Biologic Therapy in Managing Lupus During Summer
Biologic therapies have revolutionized the treatment of lupus by addressing specific components of the immune system that contribute to inflammation and disease activity.
Biologic drugs reduce disease activity and flares in lupus patients. By controlling the underlying immune response, biologics can help you maintain a more stable condition, making it easier to cope with the additional stressors of heat and sun exposure.
Incorporating biologic therapy into your treatment plan may enable you to enjoy summer activities more confidently and comfortably.
However, you must discuss this option with your rheumatologist to determine if biologic treatment is appropriate for your specific condition, as only a doctor can prescribe these medications.
Summer can be a delightful season, but requires extra vigilance and care for lupus patients. By following these tips and considering advanced treatments like biologic therapy, you can better manage your lupus symptoms and enjoy the sunny days ahead.
