In the midst of the COVID-19, "Coronavirus," pandemic, there is a lot of bad information going around.  At one point, there was discussions regarding the use of Hydroxychloroquine as a treatment option for COVID-19 patients. 

Almost immediately, those taking Hydroxychloroquine as a treatment for Lupus started experiencing pharmacies refusing to refill their prescription.  I belong to two Lupus groups.  Many of my fellow Lupies were worried as some feared running out of Hydroxychloroquine.

I was also prescribed hydroxychloroquine for my Lupus.  I started  taking it in 2017.  At that time, I experienced some side effects from the drug. In 2018, I went back to my Holistic treatments.  I put my prescription on the shelf and started using alternative treatments to deal with my Lupus Flare-ups.

The question becomes what does a Lupus Flare-up consist of? That is different for each person.  Some of the key features include pain, rashes, swollen joints and limbs, poor circulation, and my favorite: the inability to walk. I have neurological damage and some internal troubles as a result of my version of Lupus. This causes me to fall when my legs stop working.  Of course, it is more complicated than that, but you get the point.

So what do I do in order to deal with Lupus?

I am a herbalist, so I drink a lot of herbal teas.  I use turmeric, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, and lemongrass teas on a regular basis.  When my legs cramp up, I drink pickle juice.  When my body breaks out in rashes, I use my burdock root soap to soothe my skin.  When my entire body hurts, I take a long soak in my bath salts.  I use a combination of salts such as sea salt, Himalayan pink salt, and Epsom Salt to soak in.  This really helps with the pain.

Pain from Lupus is largely due to inflammation.  When I experience extreme amounts of stress, I trigger more flare-ups.  To combat the stress, I meditate, do yoga, and drink calming teas.  I also perform Reiki healing on myself.  Reiki is therapeutic because it reminds me to focus on my healing and close my thoughts to the noise of the world.

When I don't do these treatments, the Lupus shows up in full force.  Having Lupus reminds me to take care of myself.  When I don't take care of myself, I experience pain.  I have become skilled at finding ways to reduce pain in my life.  I have purchased many massage tools and I use them often.  However, I love to treat myself to a deep tissue massage.  I look forward to doing that when this pandemic is over.

Since returning to my Holistic Roots, my rheumatologist has recommended that I stop taking my other medication.  I have a prescription just in case, however, I think I will continue with my natural remedies.  I learn something new daily and hopefully I will find a way to beat Lupus.

See Stephanie's provider profile here