If you’ve recently received a lupus diagnosis and are wondering how it may affect your ability to work, you’re not alone. Many people with lupus notice that their condition affects their jobs, both in daily tasks and over time.

Can you work with lupus? Yes, many people with lupus have fulfilling and successful careers. However, it may take some planning, workplace accommodations, and finding a job that meets your needs.

In this article, we’ll look at how lupus can affect your ability to work, which jobs might be more challenging, and what to look for in a supportive workplace.

How Lupus Can Affect Your Ability To Work

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause a wide variety of symptoms. While the symptoms of lupus affect people differently, some of the most common ones may make certain work tasks or environments more difficult.

Common symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) — the most common type of lupus — include:

• Fatigue — Feeling very tired can make it hard to do long shifts, physical jobs, or work that requires irregular sleep schedules.
• Photosensitivity — Sunlight can trigger lupus flares, so outdoor jobs may be risky for some people with SLE.
• Joint and muscle pain — Jobs that require standing for long periods or repeating the same movements can make pain worse.
• Brain fog — Memory issues and other cognitive problems can make fast-paced jobs harder at times.
• Anxiety and stress — Stress can trigger lupus flares, which can make some jobs harder to manage because of high stress levels.

One member of MyLupusTeam said, “I’m a dental assistant and I work with UV light exposure every day. Can this be concerning for lupus flares?” Another member asked, “Does anyone feel completely burnt out and exhausted after just a few hours of work?” Many other members also shared how hard it can be to balance their health with their work.

Careers That May Trigger Lupus Symptoms

Everyone with lupus has different triggers that can cause symptoms and flare-ups. If you’re not sure what makes your lupus worse, keeping a symptom journal can help you notice patterns and learn which symptoms challenge you the most.

In general, some types of jobs may be harder for people with lupus to manage, including:

• Physically demanding jobs like construction, waiting tables, or nursing
• Outdoor jobs like landscaping or lifeguarding
• High-stress, unpredictable jobs like emergency medical services or firefighting
• Jobs with long or inflexible hours like retail or finance

One MyLupusTeam member shared: “I work in construction — 10-hour days for almost 30 years. Most days for me are a tiresome struggle.” Another said, “I used to work 12-hour days in hot kitchens. … Lupus ended that for me. I’m lucky to do more than a dinner rush now.”

What you can or can’t handle depends on your own experience with lupus. There are people with lupus who thrive in a variety of professions, including the ones listed above. Living with a chronic illness is personal and different for everyone. It’s important to listen to your body when making major career decisions.

Job Considerations for People With Lupus

What is a good job for someone with lupus? There’s no one right answer. Any career can be manageable and meaningful under the right conditions. Here are a few factors to think about when selecting a job.

Flexible Schedule

Look for roles that allow you to set your own schedule, take breaks as needed, or work part time during flares. One member shared, “I definitely need to stop and rest every now and then to catch my breath and just relax.”

Make sure your job doesn’t keep you from going to medical appointments or taking your medications on time.

Remote or Hybrid Opportunities

“I am highly in need of a remote job to lessen my 12-hour day and three-hour commute, because my body (physically and mentally) just cannot handle it anymore,” said one MyLupusTeam member.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work has been increasingly available. Many workplaces remain remote or hybrid. This can be a big help for people with lupus or other chronic conditions. Working from home allows you to manage symptoms more comfortably and avoid long, stressful commutes and sun exposure.

Supportive Teams

Having a positive, understanding group of colleagues and employers can make a huge difference in your well-being. Try working for companies known for being inclusive — especially toward people with chronic illnesses and disabilities. A supportive work environment can have a huge impact on your mental health and quality of life.

Health Insurance

Living with a chronic condition like SLE can be expensive to manage. For this reason, it’s important to work for a company or organization that has good benefits, including health insurance. When looking at job options, make sure to ask about benefits — not just salary.

Personal Fulfillment

Doing work you enjoy can make hard days easier. Many members of MyLupusTeam say that low-stress or creative jobs help them cope better with their lupus.

One MyLupusTeam member who also has rheumatoid arthritis (RA) shared, “I’ve been a veterinary technician for about 20 years, and having Lupus and RA has been challenging. I debated if I should change positions to be a receptionist, but I love what I do too much.”

Consistent Routine

Jobs with a regular schedule can help you manage fatigue and reduce stress. A steady routine makes it easier to build healthy habits like getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising. These habits can prevent burnout and stress that could worsen lupus symptoms.

Your Right to Workplace Accommodations

What jobs are off limits with lupus? Lupus itself doesn’t come with an official list of job restrictions, but depending on your symptoms, you may need to avoid or adjust certain tasks. Talking with your healthcare provider can help you understand your limits. You may also qualify for accommodations under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA).

Under the ADA, people with lupus have the right to “reasonable accommodations” at work if lupus is affecting their ability to do their job. These are changes to your job or workplace that help you do your job well (without causing undue hardship to your employer).

To request accommodations, you’ll need to share your health condition with your employer. This can feel difficult, but it’s often a helpful step toward creating a healthier work setup.

Examples of possible accommodations you might ask for include:

• A flexible work schedule
• Remote or hybrid work options
• More frequent breaks during the day
• Ergonomic workstations
• Low-light or sun-protected workspaces
• Extra time for tasks during flare-ups
• Accessible parking

Navigating Working With Lupus

Making a living doing meaningful work is hard enough — even without the symptoms of a chronic illness. If you’re looking for a new job while living with lupus, think about your physical and mental limitations.

If you’re already working, talk with your healthcare team about how lupus affects you. You may be able to request lupus-related accommodations under the ADA.

Many people with lupus successfully have successful careers and reach their goals. The key is finding a job and team that will prioritize your health and allow you to thrive.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyLupusTeam is the social network for people with lupus and their loved ones. On MyLupusTeam, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with lupus.

Has lupus affected your ability to do your job? What advice do you have for others with lupus who are looking for a new job? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.