Systemic Lupus Question?

Question

My mother suffers from this type of Lupus. She is 51 years old. She has some days when she is extremely fatigued or just not feeling well, bu, overall, she can do lots of normal activities. Her doctor has told her that she cannot do any sort of exercise. She takes lots of medications. I feel that my mom should get a second opinion on the exercise thing, because, by all accounts, it should be beneficial to her if she is exercising properly. I think this would help her fatigue, pain, and self-esteem. Can anyone tell me if they know any information on this subject so that I may be of more help to my mother. Thank you, in advance :)

Answer 1

One aspect of SLE lupus is photo sensitivity so maybe your mother can't be out in direct sunlight? If she was photosensitive and received sun exposure, the next day (or sooner) she might get fatigued, feverish and generally more symptomatic.

Maybe you or your mother misunderstood the Dr's complete instructions regarding exercise prohibitions or instructions? Your mom could do yoga, flexibility or gentle stretching exercises indoors with no negative side effects. Maybe the meds she takes make her not want to exercise? I think your mother needs to discuss her disease with you to help both of you deal with her having this disease. You might help her join an online support group for people affected by lupus. good luck

http://www.lupus-forums.org.uk/

Answer 2

well, there are a variety of exercises that your mother can do but... if your doctor tells not to do any exercise at the moment, it is best to obey. in Lupus, there is a period wherein exercises may aggravate the symptoms of systemic lupus, too much stress will render her cells inactive to fight other infections. Perhaps, your mother is experiencing a period of "outburst or flares" wherein most of the collective symptoms of SLE are occurring or active. at this time, it is best to REST and take the prescribed medications. to cheer her up, always be at her side and tell her of your love and support, it will cheer her up, i'm sure. and then, when the symptoms subside, you can start a mild exercise to strengthen her muscles and joints, you can hire a physical therapist to do the job. but then, consult your doctor about this, he knows the best time to initiate an exercies program for your mother. cheer up. SLE may be a lifelong disease but it's complications are preventable, just be religious with the therapy and your mother can still enjoy a productive life.

Answer 3

Hi there!
Very sorry to hear about your mom. It sound slike she is handling her condition very well.
I believe she should get a second opinion. There are some prescribed exercises that will help with muscle tone and range of motion in the joints. Those small exercises could also provide beneficial stress relief.
I know lupus can be quite painful, and the exercise probably will not help her fatigue.
Good luck to both of you!