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Living with lupus can feel like a constant battle to manage your symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Many people with lupus turn to their rheumatologists for guidance, but often find the treatment approach is heavily focused on medications alone. If you're interested in exploring a more holistic approach to managing your lupus, here are some tips for bringing this up with your rheumatologist.
Prepare Your Talking Points
Before your appointment, take some time to reflect on the aspects of your lupus care you'd like to address. Come up with a list of questions or concerns you have about your current treatment plan and how it could be supplemented with lifestyle changes or alternative therapies. Some ideas to consider:
Are there dietary modifications or supplements that could help reduce inflammation?
What role could exercise, stress management, or other lifestyle factors play in managing your symptoms?
Are there any integrative or complementary therapies your rheumatologist is familiar with and would recommend?
How can you and your rheumatologist work together to create a more comprehensive, personalized treatment plan?
Having your thoughts organized will help you have a productive conversation.
Approach the Conversation Thoughtfully
When bringing up your interest in a more holistic approach, avoid a confrontational tone. Instead, position it as a collaborative discussion where you're looking to your rheumatologist as an expert partner.
You can say something like: "I've been doing some research on holistic ways to manage my lupus, and I'd love to get your input. I know medications are a critical part of my treatment, but I'm also interested in exploring dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, or other complementary therapies that could help me feel my best. What are your thoughts on integrating those kinds of approaches?"
This framing shows you respect your rheumatologist's medical expertise, while also advocating for your own health preferences.
Be Open to Compromise
Your rheumatologist may have some hesitations about straying too far from a traditional treatment model. Be open to hearing their perspective and finding a middle ground. For example, they may be willing to provide guidance on safe supplements or relaxation techniques, even if they aren't comfortable reducing your medication dosage.
The goal is to work together to create a lupus management plan that makes you feel empowered and supported, not to demand a complete overhaul of your care. With an open dialogue, you and your rheumatologist can likely find ways to incorporate more holistic elements without compromising the effectiveness of your core treatment.
If that doesn't feel satisfactory, many of my clients often find that with the dietary changes, their labs look so improved that rheumatologists are happy to discuss reducing their medications.
Living with a chronic illness like lupus requires a multifaceted approach. By advocating for a care plan that addresses your physical, emotional, and lifestyle needs, you can take a more active role in managing your symptoms and improving your overall wellbeing.
If you're ready to get started on those changes, contact me today!
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