Health tips for caring for patients with lupus when they have been hospitalised
The advice for patients discharged with a diagnosis of lupus is aimed at restoring health and detecting any complications associated with the illness early. Diet, moderate physical activity, sun protection and sticking with medicines prescribed are fundamental to staying healthy.
What should you bear in mind if you have lupus and you have been hospitalised?
Patients with lupus who have been hospitalised should bear in mind a series of indications when it comes to re-establishing their normal routine:
- Skin protection: it is advisable to protect your skin from exposure to sunlight, especially in summer, using high factor sun creams and hats to cover your head. If you have any skin lesions, you should let a doctor know.
- Joints: a level of physical activity suited to the physical ability of each patient should be maintained (walking, swimming, yoga, tai chi, etc.)
- Kidneys: follow a diet low in salt (reducing the amount of salt in meals as well as avoiding cured foods, tinned foods, salty snacks, etc.)
- Leisure activities: do activities that allow you to maintain an active social life and, if you find yourself getting tired, plan them so that they are spaced out a bit more.
You must always take medication as prescribed by medical personnel and see your doctor if you get any of the following symptoms:
- Fever (temperature > 38 ºC)
- Swollen legs or feet
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate when resting
- Difficulty breathing
- Joint pain
- Problems with your vision
- Depressed mood