When the body attacks itself: Autoimmune diseases

Living well with a Chronic Illness

Living with a chronic autoimmune disease can be a frustrating and difficult task. One frustration is that it may take a long time for the doctors to figure out that is wrong. It can take as little as one month to as long as a few years. You may have questions, but there are no solid answers. During this time, it is important to have a solid support group. This may be family and friends, or even just your doctor.

After you are diagnosed, this may be a stressful time, but think of it as a door being opened. This is exciting because now you know what you are fighting and some of the stress can be put aside and forgotten. Try not to think about the "old you" but think about all the things you can still do and focus on those. Think of this new time as a challenge, not a defeat. You may be surprised at what you learn and where this road takes you.

Once you have been diagnosed it is important to tell your family and very close friends. They will be your support when you have rough times. However, it may not bee a good idea to tell everyone about your situation. Telling people may cause others to feel uncomfortable and lead them to think/act differently toward you. Try to avoid this. If it comes up, don't make it seem weird, but don't bring it up yourself. Live your life as normally as possible.

Living well is not impossible now that you have this disease. Living well can still be a goal and is achievable. There may be some changes that you have to make and some adjustments that have to be made, but that is the case whenever there is a new challenge in your life. Like what was mentioned before, think of this as a challenge, not a defeat. Use it to make yourself better. Do what is necessary to get the proper care from your health care team, and do your part to understand your capabilities and limitations.

Therapies can be used to help reduce the pain, swelling, and inflammation that you experience. Today the main therapy used is medication prescribed by a physician. Some individuals may even experience a full remission from their disease with the proper medical care. Whatever your therapy, try to maintain a good attitude, perform positive activities, and try to accomplish mind over matter.