difficult to pin down, there are clear symptoms that are identified with Lupus.
The signs of lupus that are experienced will depend on which body systems are affected by the disease. The most common include:
fatigue, fever, joint pain, stiffness and swelling and a butterfly-shaped rash on the face that covers the cheeks and bridge of the nose or rashes elsewhere on the body, fingers and toes that turn white or blue when exposed to cold or during stressful periods (Raynaud’s phenomenon), shortness of breath, chest pain, dry eyes, headaches, confusion and memory loss.
Be sure to consult a physician if an unexplained rash, ongoing fever, persistent aching or fatigue develops.
Because of the draining effect of the disease, it can often affect Lupus survivors at work. Gadsden-Williams offers some advice for powering through Lupus.
“Don’t suffer in silence,” she said. “Tell your colleagues about your diagnosis so they can know how to help you if needed.”
She also shared how important her diet, exercise, and emotional wellness are when managing the disease.
“When I was diagnosed, I enlisted the help of celebrity wellness coach, AJ Johnson to counsel me through this new normal,” she said. “Through my support system and a commitment to striving for balance, I’m able to be the best version of myself every day.”
To find out more about Michelle’s journey, read her book Climb.
Jasmine Browley holds an MA in journalism from Columbia College Chicago, and has contributed to Ebony, Jet and MADE Magazine among others. So, clearly, she knows some stuff. Follow her digital journey @JasmineBrowley.