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Was diagnosed with SLE 2 years ago and I am taking Plaquenil.

November 18, 2025
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MyLupusTeam

How are fellow teachers managing lupus-related brain fog and fatigue?

You're definitely not alone in dealing with brain fog and fatigue while teaching. Many MyLupusTeam members experience these challenging symptoms, which can make the demands of teaching particularly difficult.

Brain fog can affect your ability to
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How are fellow teachers managing lupus-related brain fog and fatigue?

You're definitely not alone in dealing with brain fog and fatigue while teaching. Many MyLupusTeam members experience these challenging symptoms, which can make the demands of teaching particularly difficult.

Brain fog can affect your ability to:
* Concentrate and focus
* Remember conversations or information
* Process information quickly
* Find the right words when speaking
* Multitask effectively

A MyLupusTeam member shared: "I lose words in the middle of a sentence that I had already played out in my head or forget what I'm talking about in the middle of talking about it."

Since you're taking Plaquenil, that's a good foundation for managing your lupus symptoms, though it may take time to see full benefits. Here are some strategies that might help you manage these symptoms in your teaching role:

Memory aids are essential:
* Keep a daily planner for appointments and tasks
* Use smartphone calendar reminders (set multiple alerts)
* Make daily to-do lists
* Write down key points before conversations or lessons

Prioritize sleep:
Good sleep habits can significantly reduce brain fog. Limit electronics and caffeine before bed, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Since lack of sleep worsens cognitive symptoms, this is especially important given your demanding schedule as a teacher.

Consider gentle exercise and relaxation:
Exercise has been linked to improvements in memory and information processing, while also reducing inflammation and improving sleep quality.

Track your flare triggers:
Many people notice brain fog worsens during flares. Common triggers include overworking, sun exposure, illness, and medication changes. Knowing your personal triggers can help you avoid them during the school year.

If these symptoms significantly interfere with your teaching, talk to your rheumatologist about additional management strategies.

November 18, 2025

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