Lupus Self-Awareness

Well, it's October again, which means that (among other things) it's Lupus Awareness Month here in the US. While it's crucial that we all do what we can to help raise awareness and understanding of lupus in those who are not familiar with it, it's just as vital that we lupies help ourselves by becoming more aware of our health management, our treatment options, our lupus community and the resources available to us. Here is a listing of some assistance and information that you may not have been familiar with:

• Social Security Disability The SSA can be both a blessing and a curse. While lupus is now recognized as a disabling illness, and can qualify you for benefits, it's extremely difficult and time-consuming to clamber through the red tape involved in a claim. However, if your lupus makes it impossible for you to earn a living by working, it can literally be a lifesaver. The SSA website gives you the information that you need, including phone numbers and printable forms to fill out. For more information on filing for SSDI and SSI, see the article "Social Security Options"

• Together-Rx This free program is for Medicare recipients, and gives prescription discounts on over 150 drugs. It is limited in scope, being only available to lupus patients over 65 or on Social Security Disability (and on Medicare), and you need to meet certain income requirements, but if you qualify and need one or more of the available drugs, it can eliminate the ugly need to choose between affording food or affording medication.

• Association of State and Territorial Health Officials This link will bring you to a map of the US, and by clicking on your state or territory name, you can go directly to your local health department's website. (Some counties also have separate websites, so you might check for yours via your favorite search engine.) Your health department offers a variety of services, some free, some for a small fee based on your income. These include exams, screenings, vaccinations, and education. Some low-income lupus patients may even qualify for programs that help provide proper nutrition for managing our disease. (Pregnant and breastfeeding women and mothers with children under 5 may also qualify for WIC, a program that directly provides food, information and referrals to ensure proper nutrition. Click here for more information on WIC.

• Healthsquare Drug Information An informed patient is a smart patient. You should be familiar with the drugs that you take on a regular basis, as well as being aware of possible interactions with short-term drugs like painkillers or antibiotics. If you can't invest in a Drug Handbook, this site is enormously helpful in giving you information that you need to understand your medications. For more information, you can talk to your pharmacist or doctor - They really do prefer a patient who can ask intelligent questions and would rather that you really understand your treatments.
  The copyright of the article Lupus Self-Awareness in Lupus is owned by Karyn Moran Holton. Permission to republish Lupus Self-Awareness in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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