What is Lupus?
According to the NHS, “Lupus is a long-term condition that causes joint pain, skin rashes and tiredness.” It’s an inflammatory condition that develops when the immune system attacks its tissues and organs. Unfortunately, there is no cure, but the symptoms can be managed with treatment.
Symptoms can include muscle and joint pain, extreme tiredness, rashes and inflammation of different body parts, including the lungs, heart, liver and kidneys. Other symptoms to look out for are headaches, mouth sores, high temperature, hair loss and sensitivity to light that causes skin rashes.
Lupus isn’t always easy to diagnose, but it is better managed with treatment if found early. If you notice any symptoms, contact your GP and they will conduct a blood test and may also refer you for an X-ray or scan. It is important to note that the symptoms of Lupus can flare up, but there are ways to prevent this and medication is also given to help treat this.
How we help with Lupus care
It can be overwhelming when you or your loved one is diagnosed with Lupus. Lupus can have a huge impact, especially in your older years, which may mean lifestyle changes need to be made. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t live life to the fullest; many have continued to live an independent life at home.
At Helping Hands, our carers are fully trained to provide care for those living with complex conditions. They can support you with various aspects, including nutrition and medication to help manage your symptoms. So, you can be confident knowing you’re being supported by the best carers in the field.
How we monitor your care
We understand that lupus affects individuals differently, which is why our care is unique to every individual. So, we will do everything in our willpower to ensure you get the right care to help manage your symptoms.
We will talk to you about how living with Lupus affects you and support you in enhancing your lifestyle. We’ll also monitor your nutrition, medication and mental well-being.
Furthermore, our carers will work with branch managers and clinical professionals to ensure you get the highest level of care you need. We will monitor your care regularly and if any changes need to be made, this can be arranged.
Treating your Lupus at home
With care from Helping Hands, we can help treat Lupus symptoms at home. This includes assisting with meal preparation and ensuring you receive the right nutrients to help promote bone health. Anti-inflammatory foods such as ginger and turmeric have several benefits, including reducing swelling and joint pain. Plus, vitamin D and calcium-rich foods are also a must.
It is also essential to keep active as much as you can. Our carers will encourage you to do exercise, but nothing strenuous. It can be a walk around the park or swimming. Keeping healthy can also boost your mental upkeep, which can help manage anxiety and low moods.
Keeping on top of your medication is also essential. Our carers can remind you when to take it and support you with administrating it.
We will also help manage stress levels as this can trigger Lupus symptoms. So, whether you need our carers to assist with household duties such as the laundry and washing dishes or running daily errands, including picking up prescriptions or the dry cleaning, our carers will help manage your workload so you can continue to live in the comfort of your home.
What we offer
We offer expert Lupus care on a visiting and live-in basis. What package you choose is entirely up to you. If you have family close by and they tend to manage your care, visiting care will allow our carers to visit and provide additional support or relief for your loved one. Or, if you live alone and need round-the-clock care, you can opt for live-in care.
At Helping Hands, we have provided person-centred care at home since 1989, so we have years of experience in care. We support individuals living with complex conditions like Lupus, so they can continue to live an independent and active lifestyle at home. Our carers will help you as much (or little) as you like, with minimal disruption to your routine.
Lupus care overseen by expert nurses
We have a clinical team that oversees our Lupus care so that we can provide exceptional care at home. You can be confident that you’ll receive the highest level of care as our expert team of nurses manages our complex support packages.
Living at home with Lupus
There are many benefits of remaining at home. Anxiety can trigger Lupus symptoms, especially in older people. So being in a familiar environment, close to loved ones and in a place you love can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Plus, not having the hassle of relocating to a residential care home can save you the stress too.
Furthermore, staying at home allows you to minimise sun exposure. Excess sun exposure can cause flares and trigger skin rashes, itching, fatigue and joint pain. However, this doesn’t mean you stay indoors, but it is essential to take precautions. This includes wearing suitable clothing and applying sunscreen. But you don’t have to worry as our carers will help support you with this.
More importantly, being around home comforts provides a holistic approach to your care. So, it allows us to look after you as a whole person and not just focus on your condition.
Specialist carers for Lupus
Our carers are trained to support those living with various conditions, including Lupus. They complete an intensive training programme with many specialising in Lupus care. So, you know the person looking after you definitely knows their stuff. Our carers will be able to help manage the symptoms and take precautions where they can.
Lupus care FAQ
What helps when Lupus flares up?
The best way to help with Lupus flare-ups is by prevention and making lifestyle changes. Get plenty of rest, and try not to get overtired. You should also avoid excess sun exposure, take your medication on time and maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Also, make sure you regularly visit your GP.
How is Lupus treated?
According to the NHS, Lupus is generally treated via anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen. It is recommended to take hydroxychloroquine for fatigue and skin and joint problems. Steroid tablets, injections, and creams are usually prescribed for kidney inflammation and rashes. But it is essential to get advice from your GP before undergoing any treatment.
What natural medicine helps with Lupus?
There are plenty of natural remedies available. These include turmeric and ginger, which can be added to your diet. These have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can help with joint pain and swelling. You can add turmeric to a hot cup of milk and even make ginger tea. Or they can both be added to your cooking. Green tea is also said to help manage Lupus symptoms.
Epsom salt baths are also effective in helping reduce inflammation and joint pain. Add a cup of Epson salt to your bath water and sit in the bath for 10 to 20 minutes. Before carrying out any natural remedies, please consult a healthcare professional.
How do I arrange at home Lupus care?
To arrange Lupus care at home, contact our friendly customer advisors today. Alternatively, you can walk into your local Helping Hands branch and speak to a member of our team in person, and we will work together to find the best care package to suit you.
Page reviewed by Carole Kerton-Church, Regional Clinical Lead on February 13, 2023