Is it common to struggle with weight loss with lupus even after stopping steroids?
Yes, it can be common to struggle with weight loss even after stopping steroids. While corticosteroids like prednisone are a major contributor to weight gain, several other lupus-related factors can make losing weight challenging:
Factors that Show Full Answer
Is it common to struggle with weight loss with lupus even after stopping steroids?
Yes, it can be common to struggle with weight loss even after stopping steroids. While corticosteroids like prednisone are a major contributor to weight gain, several other lupus-related factors can make losing weight challenging:
Factors that can make weight loss difficult:
* Lupus symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and stiffness make it harder to stay physically active
* Thyroid problems (hypothyroidism), which are more common with lupus, can contribute to weight gain
* Low vitamin D levels, often seen in people with lupus, are associated with higher body weight
* Poor sleep can disrupt hormones that control appetite
* Depression or antidepressants used to treat it may affect appetite and weight
A MyLupusTeam member shared: "I'm still struggling with my weight. I'm thinking of getting a referral to a nutritionist."
If you're having trouble losing weight after stopping steroids, talk with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your specific situation, check for thyroid issues or other contributing factors, and potentially refer you to a registered dietitian nutritionist for personalized guidance.
April 19