Autoimmune and systemic inflammatory disorders

Lupus

A chronic autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks its own healthy tissues.
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About

Lupus is a chronic illness where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation and damage to organs and joints.

It can affect different parts of the body, including the skin, kidneys, heart, and lungs.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

Common Challenges

  • Fatigue
  • Pain and joint stiffness
  • Skin rashes and sensitivity to sunlight
  • Flare-ups of symptoms that can vary in intensity
  • Mental health issues like depression or anxiety
  • Difficulty with mobility or performing certain tasks due to joint pain
  • Frequent medical appointments or treatments
  • Cognitive difficulties (also known as "lupus fog")

Practitioner Help

  • Help the participant identify jobs that align with their abilities and limitations
  • Support the participant in discussing necessary accommodations with potential employers
  • Assist in managing job-related stress and setting realistic expectations
  • Provide guidance on how to handle flare-ups or days when symptoms worsen
  • Encourage a balance between work and health needs to avoid burnout
  • Offer coaching on managing communication with coworkers and supervisors

Common Accommodations

  • Flexible working hours or part-time work
  • Allowing more breaks to manage anxiety or fatigue
  • Ergonomic chairs and workstations
  • Modified job duties to accommodate physical limitations
  • Adjustments for avoiding direct sunlight or excessive heat exposure
  • Flexible work hours or part-time schedules
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Notes

Lupus symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and may change over time.

It's important to rocognise when symptoms are worsening, and to seek medical help early.

Support from friends, family, and coworkers is key in managing the condition and maintaining employment.

October is Lupus Awareness Month in Australia

May 10th is World Lupus Day

Resources

  • Lupus - diagnosis, treatment, symptoms and causes | healthdirect
  • Mayo Clinic - Lupus
  • Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus) — Arthritis Australia
  • What is Lupus? – Lupus Association of NSW Inc.
  • What It’s Really Like To Live With Lupus – Lupus Association of NSW Inc.
Autoimmune and systemic inflammatory disorders

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