Lupus fatigue affects over 80% of those with the disease and can be linked to cognitive dysfunction, pain, anemia, and sleep disturbances. Exercise and a balanced diet can help, but the exact cause and cure for lupus remain unknown.
Lupus fatigue is reportedly experienced by more than 80 percent of all people who suffer from the disease. Fatigue associated with lupus includes both mental and physical tiredness and may be linked to cognitive dysfunction. There are many symptoms of lupus that can lead to fatigue, including trouble sleeping, pain, and anemia. As with any type of fatigue, lupus fatigue is particularly difficult to diagnose and treat, as there are no simple tests doctors can do to isolate the cause.
The link between lupus fatigue and cognitive dysfunction has been extensively studied, but it is still unclear whether the dysfunction is the cause of lupus fatigue or a result of the disease itself. Cognitive dysfunction is a mental condition characterized by confusion, forgetfulness and an inability to concentrate, commonly causing fatigue. What researchers still don’t understand is which comes first: lupus fatigue or cognitive dysfunction.
In an effort to diagnose the causes of extreme lupus fatigue, researchers began by separating mental fatigue and physical fatigue. Physical fatigue appeared to be more severe in those who did not get enough daily exercise and had decreased when exercise was introduced. One exception, however, was in lupus patients who also suffered from depression. In this group, exercise typically had no measurable effect on fatigue. Although mental fatigue was also linked to depression severity, pain levels appeared to be the primary factor.
Sleep disturbances are common in people with lupus and are likely one of the causes of lupus fatigue. Lupus sufferers typically report having difficulty falling asleep, and their sleep is often interrupted by periods of wakefulness, so they rarely get a good night’s rest. In addition to fatigue, sleep disturbances can lead to depression and cognitive dysfunction.
Anemia is common in people who have lupus and is also a common cause of fatigue. It is characterized by a lack of iron and causes the blood cells to be unable to carry adequate oxygen. It can usually be treated with iron supplements and dietary changes. Lupus patients are encouraged to eat iron-rich foods such as eggs, red meats, and leafy green vegetables.
The exact cause of lupus has not been defined and there is no known cure yet. There are, however, some steps that can be taken to relieve some of the symptoms. Patients are encouraged to eat a balanced diet and get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Sleep disturbances may require medication or lifestyle changes.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
