Treatment

[jkushmaul590]

Hi, I'm new to this. I just wanted to ask, even though herbal remedies and other non medical suggestions can be used as complimentary, can any of these natural ways be used in lieu of medication? Probably a dumb question. Also, is anyone here not receiving regular treatment from a physcian or rheumatologists? I was diagnosed with SLE and fybromyalgia three years ago, we don't have health insurance and couldn't afford treatment. The rheumatologists I saw three years ago was even reluctant to schedule testing or prescribe meds because of cost. Now I feel like my life is out of control, I really am tired of pain and am having more and more trouble coping. Anyone else in the same boat, anyone have any suggestions!? (Sorry, just started ranting near the end!)

Jamie :(

[Lily]

Hi Jamie and welcome :hugbetter:

As far as Lupus goes there may be certain things that help some of an individual's symptoms, but the thing that helps the most are the prescribed meds. Eating well if you can (lots of fresh fruit and veggies, low fat diet, plenty of water, cut down on caffeine/carbonated drinks etc.) , avoiding alfalfa sprouts (known to contain a compound that can make lupus worse) can all help a little. Some say that glucosamine can help with joint pain etc. but once again I would still check that with a health professional.

It's awful you dont have health insurance :( :hugbetter: but we have a pinned notice in the living with lupus section that has a lot of links for uninsured and underinsured individuals that may help them get the meds they need. Of course if you havent seen your doc for around 3 yrs then you would have to be re-assessed but they may have some suggestions as far as that goes too.

Here's the link:

http://www.thelupussite.com/forum/index.ph...t=0#entry133364 (http://www.thelupussite.com/forum/index.php?act=ST&f=4&t=18068&st=0#entry133364)

I hope it helps and maybe others will come along with further suggestions too.

Take care,

love
Lily

[jkushmaul590]

Thanks Lily, I'll be sure to check that site out!!!

Jamie :rolleyes:

[barefut]

Hi Jamie,

I also have had a lupus diagnosis for many years and have gone without a second opinion, or a rheumy appt, or prescription treatment meds. I have been 'coping' the best I can with off the shelf NSAIDS but now they aren't doing me much good anymore.

I've looked for and tried a few complimentary therapies, mostly vitamins and fish and flaxseed oils, without much sucess.

I'll tell you what I'd REALLY like to try.......acupuncture and massage therapy! I have lame health insurance so I doubt they'd pay for it though.

Don't apologize for ranting (even tho I do too) I didn't even think you were. We all need to do that for our sanity and this is the best place to rant!

Popular opinion (and experience) dictates that stress and lack of sleep tend to produce flares or make them worse (you probably already know this) so for preventative measures at least, try to get lots of sleep and as little stress as possible - easier said than done I know!

Just some other cheap or free ideas off the top of my head that you've probably already tried too.........

1. relaxation tapes
2. a massage from significant other
3. lots of long hot baths
4. topical pain relievers: Ben Gay, Icy Hot
5. heating pads
6. eat healthy, mild exercise.....what we hear all the time.......
7. aromatherapy
8. biofeedback
9. venting online
10. delegate your worst jobs to someone else

I sure hope you find some relief soon! Let us know how you fare.


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