Increase Energy with Lupus

posted in Lupus Encyclopedia: The Book on December 21, 2023 by

Gavin Abson

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Living with lupus often comes with the challenge of persistent fatigue, a common symptom of the disease. This article delves into strategies to increase energy with lupus, drawing insights from “The Lupus Encyclopedia.“

This blog on “Increase Energy with Lupus” was edited and contributed to by Donald Thomas, MD; author of “The Lupus Encyclopedia.” Parts of this blog post come from “The Lupus Encyclopedia: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Health Care Providers, edition 2“

Some of the information in this blog post comes specifically from Chapter 6 of “The Lupus Encyclopedia,” titled “Constitutional Symptoms.” The book notes on page 119:

It is essential to realize that fatigue is often due to multiple ­factors and rarely has a simple cure. Vitamins, for example, rarely help unless the person has a significant vitamin deficiency. Still, there are things you can do to improve your energy level. If you have considerable fatigue, review table 6.1 <found inside the book> to find pos­si­ble causes and learn to better manage the fatigue.

The Lupus Encyclopedia (2nd ed.), p. 119

The Complex Nature of Lupus Fatigue

Understanding Factors Contributing to Fatigue

Lupus-related fatigue is rarely singular in its origin. Various factors, including inflammation, medications, and the overall impact of the disease on the body, contribute to this pervasive sense of tiredness. Identifying the causes of fatigue is important to know how to treat it and increase energy with lupus.

Low energy with lupus due to systemic inflammation

If the fatigue is due to inflammation from systemic lupus, medications that calm down the immune system should help. Examples of medicines that can help lupus-induced fatigue include hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), belimumab (Benlysta), anifrolumab (Saphnelo), quinacrine, and immunosuppressants (like methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, and azathioprine).

How do you know if your fatigue is due to lupus causing inflammation in your body? If it occurs while you are having a lupus flare (such as also having an arthritis flare, increased skin lupus inflammation, or pleurisy, for example), and the fatigue is much better when you are not flaring, then that is a reliable clue. Also, if you have persistently active lupus symptoms and this is accompanied by a high anti-dsDNA level, low C3 or C4 complement, a high anti-C1q or EC4d level, then it could very well be due to your lupus, and these medications could possibly help.

Low energy with lupus that is not due to active inflammation

Studies show that most lupus patients have fatigue and low energy with lupus due to non-inflammatory causes. It is important to consider and identify these problems to know how to improve energy with lupus in these situations. Recognizing that a holistic approach is often necessary for effective management is essential.

• If the person is not getting at least 7 to 8 hours of good quality sleep daily, then working on the causes of the lack of sleep is important.
• Some drugs can cause fatigue, and stopping the medicine or decreasing its dose may be the best thing to do.
• Unfortunately, disorders like depression, stress, anxiety, and fibromyalgia are some of the most common causes of loss of energy with lupus, and these problems need specific treatments to help. You can do some simple tests at home to see if you may have one of these disorders found at the bottom of our website’s “Lupus Secrets” page. Though we cannot eliminate stress from our lives, we can learn to reduce the negative effects of stress on our bodies. 
• Patients with lupus are more likely to have sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea. Your doctor may recommend a sleep study to help identify these problems. 

Practical Insights from “The Lupus Encyclopedia”

The excerpt quoted above about increasing energy with lupus from “The Lupus Encyclopedia” emphasizes the importance of identifying possible causes of fatigue. As the book suggests, vitamins may not be a panacea, but addressing significant deficiencies is crucial. Table 6.1 in Chapter 6 provides insights into potential causes, offering a valuable resource for individuals looking to manage fatigue more effectively.

Practical Strategies to Increase Energy with Lupus

Optimize Sleep Quality

Quality sleep is fundamental for managing fatigue. Establishing a consistent sleep routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants close to bedtime can improve sleep quality.

Balanced Nutrition

A well-balanced diet is integral to combatting fatigue and increasing energy levels with lupus. Ensure you’re getting essential nutrients through a varied and nutritious diet. Consulting with a nutritionist can provide personalized dietary recommendations.

Regular Exercise

While fatigue may discourage physical activity, regular exercise has been shown to boost energy levels in individuals with lupus. Almost every study examining exercise and fatigue in lupus shows that exercise improves energy. A 2022 NIH published study demonstrated improved mitochondrial function and energy levels in lupus patients with significant fatigue who exercised. This appears to be at least one possible mechanism for the positive benefits of exercise. The mitochondria are tiny organelles in cells. Scientists often call mitochondria the “powerhouse of the cell.” People with systemic lupus tend to have abnormally functioning mitochondria, and exercise appears to improve this problem. Consult a healthcare professional to develop a tailored exercise plan for your capabilities.

Stress Management

Stress is a known contributor to lupus symptoms, including fatigue. Incorporate stress-reducing activities, such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle yoga, into your routine.

Prioritize Rest to Increase Energy with Lupus

Balancing activity with sufficient rest is crucial. Learn to listen to your body’s signals and permit yourself to rest when needed.

Increasing energy levels with lupus requires a multifaceted approach that considers the complexities of the disease. By understanding potential causes of fatigue, as outlined in resources like “The Lupus Encyclopedia,” individuals with lupus can empower themselves to make informed decisions about their health. Remember, it’s a journey of self-discovery, and finding the right combination of strategies may take time. Consult with your healthcare team, stay proactive, and gradually implement changes to enhance your overall vitality despite the challenges of lupus-related fatigue.

For more in-depth information on increasing energy when you have lupus:

Read chapters 6, 38, and 39 of The Lupus Encyclopedia, edition 2

Look up your symptoms, conditions, and medications in the Index of The Lupus Encyclopedia

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