How can you manage lupus? One of the goals of controlling mild to moderate lupus symptoms is to prevent flares, the times when your symptoms are worse. Some of the other things you can do include:

• Rest to reduce stress.
• Avoid the sun. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when you are outside.
• Exercise regularly to prevent fatigue and joint stiffness.
• Find ways to relax
• Stop smoking.
• Learn the warning signs of a symptoms flare, such as fatigue, pain, and rash, and take steps to control them.

With good self-care, most people with lupus can keep doing their regular daily activities.

It is important to learn about lupus so that you can understand how it might affect your life and how you can best cope with it. Also, help your family and friends understand your limitations and needs when your symptoms flare. Develop a support system of family, friends, community groups and health professionals.  Many people with lupus have found support groups to be very useful. Besides providing support, taking part in a support group can make you feel better about yourself and help you to keep a good outlook. Learning more about lupus is very important. Studies have shown that patients who are informed and involved in their own care:

• Have less pain
• Make fewer visits to the doctor
• Feel better about themselves
• Remain more active.