Chronic Thoughts

Lupus, Flares Guest User Lupus, Flares Guest User

Lupus Flares: How to Identify and Manage Them

Lupus is a chronic disease that can cause various symptoms, from joint pain to skin rashes. Many people with lupus experience flare-ups, which stress, sunlight, infections, and medications can trigger. Learn how to identify lupus flares and manage symptoms to take control of your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Read More
Sjogren's Guest User Sjogren's Guest User

6 Tips for Managing Sjogren’s Syndrome Flares

Sjogren's syndrome can be a challenging condition to manage, especially regarding flares. Flares can be unpredictable and disruptive, but there are ways to reduce their frequency and severity. Here are six ways you can reduce and manage your Sjogren’s syndrome flares.

Read More

The Effect of Language Barriers on Chronic Illness Care for Minority Patients

Language barriers can significantly impact the quality of care that minority patients with chronic illnesses receive. Patients with limited English proficiency may be less likely to receive preventive services and have difficulty understanding their diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans. Here are some tips on overcoming language barriers and improving communication with patients.

Read More
Healthcare Bias Guest User Healthcare Bias Guest User

The Importance of Cultural Competency in Healthcare

Healthcare providers must be culturally competent to ensure the best patient outcomes. Cultural competency involves understanding the cultural differences in healthcare beliefs, practices, and behaviors and how they can impact patient care. Here’s a look at the importance of cultural competency in healthcare and how it can improve patient outcomes.

Read More
IBS Guest User IBS Guest User

How to Stay Social While Managing IBS Symptoms

If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you know how challenging it can be to socialize without worrying about triggering symptoms. Yet, socializing is a crucial aspect of our lives, and it’s best if people with IBS learn how to manage their symptoms and stay social. From identifying trigger foods to choosing the right venues and seeking support, here are some tips for staying social with IBS.

Read More
IBS Guest User IBS Guest User

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine or colon and is characterized by a group of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. While there is no cure for IBS, there are several treatment options that can help manage symptoms, including medication, dietary changes, stress management, probiotics, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Making lifestyle changes like exercise, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated can also be helpful.

Read More
Getting a Diagnosis Guest User Getting a Diagnosis Guest User

Dealing with Diagnosis Delays? Here’s What You Can Do When Your Symptoms are Dismissed

Living with a chronic illness can be a daily struggle, and it can be even more challenging when healthcare providers don't take your symptoms seriously. As a chronic illness warrior, you deserve the best care, so it's crucial to self-advocate for yourself whenever you can. With this in mind, we’re exploring the practical steps you can take to communicate assertively with healthcare providers, find emotional support, and manage the impact of your condition on your mental health.

Read More
Mental Health Guest User Mental Health Guest User

The Emotional Impact of a Chronic Illness Diagnosis: How to Navigate Your Feelings

After receiving a chronic illness diagnosis, it is natural to feel overwhelmed, scared, and sad. However, it is essential to acknowledge and express your emotions, educate yourself, connect with others, practice self-care, and build a strong support network to manage the emotional impact of your diagnosis. By doing so, you can take control of your situation and find ways to cope with your illness while maintaining your overall well-being.

Read More
Women's Health, Healthcare Bias Guest User Women's Health, Healthcare Bias Guest User

Why Autoimmune Diseases are More Prevalent in Women

Autoimmune diseases affect millions worldwide, with women diagnosed more than men. While the exact reasons for this gender disparity are not fully understood, research has identified several factors contributing to the higher incidence of autoimmune diseases in women. Here’s a look at three potential reasons why autoimmune diseases are more prevalent in women.

Read More
Women's Health, Healthcare Bias Guest User Women's Health, Healthcare Bias Guest User

Examining Healthcare Stigmas Against Women: Why Aren’t We Being Believed?

Women often face discrimination and bias when seeking medical care, leading to negative health outcomes and a lack of trust in the healthcare system. This stigma is particularly prevalent regarding conditions like endometriosis and mental health issues, where women are often dismissed as “just having period pain.” Addressing healthcare stigmas requires education, training, research, advocacy, and more.

Read More