Exercise

[CaviarRed]

Hello thank you for the comforting replies, they really do help.I wanted to ask about exercise. I try to go out walking a couple of times a week. However, I find I get breathless easily and obviously can't walk as far as I did 6 months ago. Is this usual for Lupus?

I'm finding I have good/bad days and some days I almost feel normal but others I feel so weak and in pain I cry.

This doesn't feel like me. I want my life back but have been told this condition is progressive. Will I get used to these restrictions my body is putting on me?

Thanks

[Chris21]

hi Donna, yes I found over time I’ve become breathless when walking. I’ve had many scans to see if lungs and heart are causing problem, fortunately they come back ‘healthy’. I now have inhalers that help. I can’t walk as fast but I still go out. I also do gentle exercise, I can’t do the mad fast aerobics that I used to do, dancing is enough to make me breathless ☺️

I’ve had the diagnosis of lupus 8 years now and Probably have had it longer undiagnosed. There’s been other conditions thrown into the bag along the way as well. I still get good days and bad days but have learnt to just go with what that days brings. The days you feel weak and in pain will be your body shouting Hey! I told you not to overdo it! You haven’t said what medication you’re taking, I’m on hydroxychloroquine which has helped, I know some on here can’t take it and have an alternative. Do talk to your GP to see if there’s anything that can help.

[445600]

Hi

I suffer exactly the same. !!

I would suggest small and slow walks increase only if you feel you can. If you’re breathless STOP and get your breath back . This works for me . I would advise not to push yourself . I find the fresh air does me a world of good 😊 take care

[SurferGuy]

Hi caviar Red,

It might be that you very slowly need to build up stamina.

I used to be a good swimmer and could easily do 30 lengths straight. But since Lupus I found I could just about do 2 lengths and then needed to catch my breath before going again. But I've been going religiously for the last few months and have found that my stamina has increased and I can now do 6 lengths before needing to have a good breather, before going again. I'm now managing 25 lengths in 30 minutes. No way I was able to do this this time last year.

[Smudge4465]

Hi there, I personally think it’s important we exercise daily within the limits of our body. Got to keep going as they say! BUT also be kind to yourself if yr just not up to it. Chest infections and lung clots are common for lupus. If you take Methotrexate yr immunity will be compromised. Talk to your GP or lupus nurse if yr concerned. They are there to help and support. Best wishes ❤️

[MrsMarigold]

Hi Caviar Red. Very cool name! Your description is valid and so is your concern. I have been in a low spot physically last few months so I get one walk a week about a mile and no swimming since heating our pool is astronomical with gas prices. I replicate swimming moves on my exercise mat. I’m also a very creative person so any opportunity for exercise around the house I think it! I do it: yesterday chopping celery stand on one leg for 60 seconds. Rotate to other leg. Every time I walk through a doorway I have several arm movements I do. All movements create resistance and build strength in gentle ways. I use several Pilates exercise tools and deep breathing. Deep breathing is truly a skill and easy to learn. You may find your lung capacity to improve. Best to you. MrsMarigold