Friday, September 27, 2013

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Friday, September 27th

Another beautiful morning! Windy and temps are in the 60's this morning. Yesterdays high hit 80 degrees and we are looking for the same again today...
There may be some rain in our forecast, tonight and tomorrow...we need it.

My right hand has been aching a lot and It feels like it's changing....itching, sores with rough spots...
I go in every 3 to 4 weeks to get a manicure and pedicure to help my cuticles stay healthy...
They also massage ny hands and feet for circulation...

I went out for breakfast yesterday at the old Finnes with Grandma Marion...we had a good time and are planning on going out again next Thursday :-)

Today Kaylee and I are heading over to Faribault to eat with Grandma Gloria and out for ice cream with Grandma Faye.  We are also bringing over goodie bags and nail polish to give both grandmas a manicure... :-)

So thankful for all I can do...

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Lupus Foundation of America

LIVING WELL WITH LUPUS

Are flu and pneumonia vaccines safe if I have lupus?

When you have lupus, it is very important to know that you are at increased risk for infections, compared to the general population. This is true whether or not you are taking medications to suppress your overactive immune system, as the disease itself also increases the risk of infections. And if you do contract an infection, whether caused by a virus or bacteria, you may find that it takes you longer to recover than before your lupus diagnosis.

Seasonal Flu Vaccine

The influenza vaccine (flu shot) is a highly effective vaccine made from an inactivated (killed) virus. It is given once a year to people who are at risk for complications of influenza infection. About two weeks after vaccination, the body develops antibodies that provide protection against the influenza virus infection.

Although there is not good evidence, it is thought that a vaccine against a particular infectious agent (such as a germ, bacteria, or virus) could occasionally trigger an autoimmune disease flare. However, people with lupus generally do not have any side effects from the flu vaccine. When they do, their symptoms are usually mild, such as a few days of fever and muscle aches. Overall, the influenza vaccine is considered to be safe and effective for people with lupus, and it is recommended that they receive the flu vaccine every year.

Pneumonia Vaccine

The pneumonia vaccine is also recommended for people with lupus, and a second dose should be given five years after the first dose. This vaccine can help to prevent most (but not all) kinds of pneumonia.

Protecting Yourself

Below are simple steps that people with lupus and their family members can take to lessen the likelihood of contracting influenza, pneumonia, and other contagious illnesses:

Avoid anyone—including family members—who has symptoms of fever (over 100º F), nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Specifically, you should avoid close, personal contact, such as hugging, kissing, and shaking hands.
Wash your hands (tops, palms, and fingers) frequently with hot soapy water for at least 15 seconds.
Remember that surfaces can retain the influenza virus —especially in bathrooms, on shared office equipment, in stores, and in restaurants. Keep alcohol-based gel or wipes handy, in public, at work, and home.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
Use the crook of your arm to shield coughs and sneezing. Do not use your hands or handkerchiefs as they carry moisture that spread viruses.
Stay home from work or school if you are sick.
Finally, never stop taking the medications used to treat your lupus without first consulting with your doctor.
Medically reviewed on May 24, 2013
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Today's Bible Study

A Testimony of Faith

Read | Acts 8:4-39

Yesterday, we listed the three facets of a Christian’s personal testimony. Today, let’s take a look at a biblical figure who exemplified these qualities. In Acts 8:5-6, Philip brought the good news of Jesus Christ to Samaria, and the crowd there listened intently. It must have been thrilling for him to see such warm receptivity to the gospel. In spite of this, he demonstrated obedience to the Lord by immediately following instructions to leave and take the message to Gaza. Philip’s godly character was evident in his sensitivity to the Lord’s call and his willingness to obey at once, no matter the cost.

We also see that Philip’s conduct matched his character. He allowed right principles to guide him, and his actions lined up with his beliefs. Had Philip chosen to disobey the Lord, or if his faith had not been genuine, his behavior would have revealed ungodly motives, and his testimony would have been worthless.

Whether Philip was addressing large crowds or speaking to an individual, his words pointed to Jesus Christ. In verses 25-39, he taught Scripture to a traveler and then baptized the man. Philip considered his words carefully and made sure that his conversations directed others to the Savior.

Philip is an example of a believer who trusted in Christ, regardless of the situation. His devout, unwavering faith revealed itself in the way he testified with his life. As you approach different situations throughout the day, try to be like Philip—let the Lord guide your character, conduct, and conversation.

Another great day!

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