I have lupus and can go for months without significant symptoms. Why do I then suddenly have a flare-up of fatigue and joint pain?

HealthWork's editorial staff spoke with Martin Kafina, MD, a rheumatologist located in Concord and is an Instructor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School.

Lupus is a chronic condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s organs and tissues. Lupus also represents a spectrum of autoimmunity, from mild to severe, that may overlap with other immune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Almost any part of the body can be affected—the skin and joints, heart, kidneys, blood and brain. Multiple factors and environmental triggers affect recurrence, including sunlight, genetics, hormone imbalances and physical or emotional stress. There may also be a mind-body component.

When your body is stressed, your immune system becomes less tolerant and is more likely to react. Major keys to controlling stress include gentle aerobic exercise such as swimming and biking, or any exercise you enjoy, adequate sleep, proper nutrition and maintaining a positive attitude. Yoga and meditation can help, as can medicine that allows your immune system to become more tolerant.

For more information onrheumatology services at Emerson
Hospital, please call the Physician Referral Service at
1-877-936-3776 or visit the hospital’s web site at
www.emersonhospital.org.