Ginger tea and simethicone help to relieve gas.
April 27
Ginger is a natural appetite depressant too. Drink lots of water to keep your kidneys flushed and I have noticed if I don't drink enough water I cough. Water too is a natural appeitite suppressant and as long as you are not on fluid restriction drink away and melt away pounds. God bless.
April 28
Bloating and weight changes are really common frustrations with lupus, and you're definitely not alone in feeling this way. There are a few things that might be contributing to what's going on.
Lupus itself can affect the digestive system, which may cause bloating and discomfort. Some lupus medications, like Show Full Answer
Bloating and weight changes are really common frustrations with lupus, and you're definitely not alone in feeling this way. There are a few things that might be contributing to what's going on.
Lupus itself can affect the digestive system, which may cause bloating and discomfort. Some lupus medications, like hydroxychloroquine (HCQ/Plaquenil), can also cause GI side effects including gas and bloating.
Here are some things worth exploring with your doctor:
- Dietary adjustments — High-fiber foods can help with inflammation but may also increase gas and bloating. A dietitian can help find the right balance.
- Medication review — If you're on HCQ, different formulations (brand vs. generic) affect people differently. Ask your doctor if a switch might help.
- Over-the-counter options — Some gas relief medications may help, but always check with your doctor first for any interactions with your lupus medications.
- Gastroparesis — Lupus can sometimes slow digestion, causing bloating, fullness, and appetite changes. Worth mentioning to your rheumatologist.
Keeping a symptom journal tracking what you eat and when bloating occurs can be really helpful for your doctor to identify patterns.
Most importantly, don't make big dietary changes without looping in your healthcare team first — they can guide you safely! 💛
April 27
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