Lupus — What Are Common Triggers for Flares

Lupus: What Are Common Triggers for Flares?

Living with lupus can feel like a balancing act, as this autoimmune disease often goes through cycles of remission and flare-ups. Flares are periods when lupus symptoms worsen, causing fatigue, joint pain, rashes, and other uncomfortable or even debilitating symptoms. Learning what triggers flares can help you take control, minimize symptoms, and improve your quality of life. Here’s a look at common lupus triggers and tips on how to manage or avoid them.

1. Sunlight and Ultraviolet (UV) Light

Sun exposure is a well-known trigger for lupus flares, as UV rays can cause skin rashes and worsen other symptoms. In fact, many people with lupus are photosensitive, meaning their skin reacts more severely to the sun.

Tips to Avoid UV Triggers:

• Wear sunscreen with high SPF every day, even if you’re not planning to be outside for long. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Cover up with clothing, hats, and sunglasses when you’re outside.
• Try to avoid being outdoors during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), when UV rays are strongest.
• Be cautious around indoor sources of UV light, like fluorescent bulbs. Many lupus patients benefit from installing UV shields on light fixtures.

2. Physical and Emotional Stress

Stress can be a significant trigger for lupus flares. When you experience stress, the body releases hormones that can increase inflammation, potentially causing lupus symptoms to worsen. Both physical stress, like surgery or illness, and emotional stress, such as anxiety or major life changes, can trigger flares.

Tips to Manage Stress:

• Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
• Prioritize rest: Lupus can cause fatigue, so getting plenty of sleep is essential.
• Exercise gently and regularly to manage stress and strengthen your body, as long as your doctor approves it.
• Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. Managing stress can be a challenge, and having support can make it easier.

3. Infections

Infections, even mild ones like the common cold, can lead to lupus flares. People with lupus often have a weaker immune system, whether due to the disease itself or from medications that suppress immunity. Even a minor infection can cause a flare or worsen lupus symptoms.

Tips to Prevent Infections:

• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations (with your doctor’s approval), including the flu vaccine.
• Practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly, especially before eating and after being in public spaces.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick whenever possible.
• Get plenty of rest and eat a balanced diet to keep your immune system strong.

4. Certain Medications

Some medications can trigger lupus flares or even cause a condition called drug-induced lupus, which mimics lupus symptoms. Antibiotics, certain blood pressure medications, and some over-the-counter pain relievers are known to increase flare risk.

Tips for Medication Management:

• Inform all of your healthcare providers about your lupus diagnosis, so they can consider your condition when prescribing medication.
• Read medication labels and ask questions before taking new medications, especially over-the-counter drugs.
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor promptly, as they may indicate a reaction to a medication.

5. Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels, especially estrogen, can influence lupus activity. This may be why many people experience their first lupus symptoms during puberty or after childbirth, and why symptoms may worsen before menstruation.

Tips to Manage Hormonal Triggers:

• Discuss hormonal therapies carefully with your doctor, as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy might impact your symptoms.
• Track your symptoms around your menstrual cycle. Knowing when symptoms might worsen can help you prepare and adjust activities if needed.
• Practice stress management and self-care to minimize the impact of hormonal shifts on lupus symptoms.

6. Diet and Certain Foods

Although there’s no specific “lupus diet,” some foods can trigger inflammation, which may worsen lupus symptoms. Processed foods, sugary snacks, and foods high in unhealthy fats can contribute to overall inflammation in the body. Additionally, some people with lupus are sensitive to foods high in alfalfa sprouts or garlic, as these may exacerbate symptoms.

Tips for a Lupus-Friendly Diet:

• Focus on a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and saturated fats, which can increase inflammation.
• Track any food sensitivities by keeping a food diary to see if certain foods trigger your symptoms.
• Consult with a registered dietitian who can help you create a lupus-friendly diet that fits your preferences and nutritional needs.

7. Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can worsen lupus symptoms and make it more challenging to manage the disease. Smoking increases inflammation and reduces the effectiveness of medications. Excessive alcohol can interact negatively with lupus medications, especially certain pain relievers and immunosuppressive drugs.

Tips to Limit Smoking and Alcohol:

• If you smoke, consider quitting or seeking support to reduce or stop smoking.
• Limit alcohol consumption and consult your doctor about safe levels, as certain lupus medications may interact with alcohol.
• Seek support from your healthcare team or support groups if you need help quitting smoking or reducing alcohol intake.

8. Changes in Weather and Temperature

Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can trigger lupus flares. Cold weather can cause joint pain and stiffness, while high temperatures and humidity may worsen fatigue and rashes.

Tips to Manage Temperature Changes:

• In cold weather, dress in layers and use warm compresses to ease joint pain.
• In hot weather, stay hydrated and avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day.
• Use air conditioning and keep your environment comfortable.
• Listen to your body and rest when needed to avoid overexertion, especially during temperature changes.

Final Thoughts

Understanding what triggers lupus flares can empower you to manage your health more effectively. Everyone’s lupus experience is unique, so identifying your specific triggers is key. Keeping a symptom journal can help you track what may be setting off your flares. Above all, open communication with your healthcare team will ensure you receive the support, treatment, and advice tailored to your needs.

With a proactive approach to lifestyle adjustments and symptom management, you can minimize lupus flares and live a full, balanced life.