Well, had my first low c3 compliment result; found out today. Could be a couple things but Rheumy thinks it could be Lupus activity. It was only two below the lower range so not bad.
can I ask if anyone has tips on how to raise it? I’m good in range on my vitamins.
Hi Jenna. I waited for someone else to answer this, because often people here know things that I don't. As far as I know there is no artificial way to raise your complement levels. If your complement is low it is an indication of a flare. When it is within the so-called normal range, it means that your immune system is under control.
Not the answer you were hoping for - but maybe someone else here knows more than me...?
thank you WinterSwimmer,
I kept searching online but didn’t find anything; it also sucks when your vitamin D and others are in normal range too.
Your doctors are supposed to keep your condition stable and improve your symptoms gradually. I don't think there is some measures you can take with supplements as such. If you are trying to control you condition, the best thing is to keep up with the medication your doctor has given you and live stress free life with kindness to yourself. Reducing inflammation factor will help too. So that means eating food that doesn't cause inflammation. Lots of vegetables. I have become a vegetarian to help with this. And don't worry too much. If your doctor is not alarmed, then stay calm. Good luck!
thank you Paprika60. I’ve had a relatively light Lupus case as my Rheumy diagnosed me pretty early on and we started medication before some stressful situations hit. I had to advocate alot of for myself, learning along the way and finally got a Rheumy who saw what I saw and diagnosed me first with UCTD and then Lupus once more evidence started showing. I guess it’s kind of a challenge to see a little progression, reaffirming what I had originally thought in 2017.
But you’re right, if she’s not worried, I shouldn’t be, and going to anti- inflammatory can always help. Thank you
Hi Jenna, I’m also going through a diagnosis process as a result of a low C3. The lupus nurse said that it would be checked again after I’ve been on hydroxycloroquine for 6months. She explained that seeing how I responded to treatment was part of the diagnosis process.
Hi Fernlife,
I’m glad you have a good nurse who’s keeping an eye on your levels and earlier on (it sounds like you’re in more of the beginning stages?) that’s good to know. I’ve been on Hydroxy for I think a little over a year, and it does seem like this stuff happens from time to time. I hope you have good results and respond well. This is my first low c3, I’ve had one or two low c4 in the past. I guess it’s a little nerve wracking to see some progression. Definitely could be worse, and I’m thankful she saw it for what it is.
Hi Jenna
Mine is low too, on my last check. There’s nothing specific you can take to rise complement levels/C3. It is a part of your immune system that is depleted due to it being over zealous when it shouldn’t be!
Thank you Sarafied,
It’s unfortunate nothing can be taken, and a bit sad to see a little change in the progression. But definitely could be worse, that’s not very low so I’m trying to reframe my mindset on it.
Sorry I can’t be of any help 😬 However, when I’m flaring I want my blood to at least have the common decency to reflect it! 😉😄 It’s a part of the puzzle 🧩 and better it shows its hand than hide in the shadows, so you can be properly treated - that’s how I ‘try’ to view it. But, yes it absolutely does crush you when treatment isn’t going as planned and throws up more ‘off’ results, so I’m not being flippant here. It sounds as if you’ve a good Rheumatologist, so don’t be afraid to voice concerns as they’ll put results into the right context with your individual case and treatment plan.
Take care of yourself and I hope your next test shows improvement for you. 🤞🏻
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