Lupus - Flare Management

Family and friends are usually the first people we call on when a flare puts us out of commission. The first task in creating a plan is to make a list of as many family members and friends you can think of. As you work on creating your list, think about who has been helpful to you in the past. How were they helpful? Are they still available and willing to help?

Now take a closer look at your list and consider the individual personalities and talents of each person. Is there something that you might need that they would enjoy doing? Perhaps Aunt Betsy loves to cook for example. How about asking her to make a few meals? She can bring them over anytime and you can label them Flare Time and use them accordingly.

Chances are you have people in your life that want to help. You can provide them that chance by telling them exactly what you need. This may take a little practice of course. In surveying what your needs might be, its a good idea to set aside some time to take inventory of your past flares. This will enable you to explain to your friends and family how your flares present themselves. Let's say for example you know that almost every year around Christmas time you have a flare that lasts two weeks. Sharing that information will allow you to line up the help you might need before you need it. You can visit Chronicbabe.com and receive a copy of the ChronicBabe toolkit when you sign up for their newsletter. The toolkit contains a whole slew of templates that will assist you in your flare management efforts. Her site has a variety of helpful articles for people living with chronic illnesses like lupus.

So, back to brainstorming. What about running errands, picking up the kids from school, or cleaning house? All of these things still need attention whether you are able to tend to them or not. Having a plan in place will lessen your stress, and you will be able to concentrate on what's important, and that is getting well.

Family and friends will be flattered about being chosen by you to help with certain task(s). You are showing them that you value them and trust them to help out when things get tough. If they respond with a bad attitude, find help elsewhere, or if you don't want to give up that easily, try having a heart to heart discussion with them, explaining the lupus basics.

Maybe its time for some new friends. Perhaps you are in the market to meet some friends who understand exactly what you are going through. Consider joining an online support group or two. WebMD.com and the Lupus Foundation of America's forum are good places to start.

Not a fan of online groupies? No worries, stick with what feels comfortable. Take the time to stash your favorite photo album within arms reach of your comfy flare chair. Photos not in an album? Don't despair, your flare time is thee perfect time to organize your photos. Save a stack just for this occasion, they will serve as a healthy distraction from what ails you and the bonus is that you will feel like you accomplished something worthwhile.

If you happen to find yourself hospitalized often, you could make a copy of the article, 10 tips for Visiting Someone Who is Sick by Christina Miserandino, creator of Butyoudontlooksick.com Although her article focuses on hospital visits, much of what she suggests applies to home visits as well.

So, its time to get busy and design your own customized "flare management protocol." You will be glad you did!

Copyright 2009 Sheila K. Anderson
LupusResource.com