Hello Maggie
Initials certainly can be an irritating problem and I myself sometimes don't know what some initials are when they aren't part of the usual Lupus vocabulary. I try to only use initials after using the full term, like they do in the newspapers
It's rather like learning about any culture and its language isn't it. Little by little and with practice we build up the body of knowledge for our purpose.
This support forum complements the general information section of the site by giving people the chance to address their individual needs and share with sympathetic others who have similar experiences.
For basic information about lupus see for example 'Lupus FAQ' and the other articles on the info section. They are not written in any technical jargon and most people find they can learn to understand what might be unfamiliar but essential terms such as 'antibodies'.
http://www.uklupus.co.uk/new.html
Specific questions are best asked on the appropriate forum section and should be based on the member's own needs, not phrased as a survey question. " How can I help my partner " is a person based question expressing a specific need.
Steve, you wrote
"....it's hard to know what feelings or signs there are attached to it.
Can anyone help? "
This is a question with vast and endless answers. What is your partner feeling ? What signs ( does this mean symptoms?) do they have?
It is hard to realise how many different ways people are affected by lupus but there is nearly always at least one person with similar experiences whether it is symptoms, their reactions to having a chronic disease and how their lives are affected.
So a better approach would be to have a focused think about what your difficulties are and let us know.
Cheers
Clare