The First Year--Lupus: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed

by Nancy C. Hanger

Lupus affects an estimated 1.5 million people in the U.S.--90 percent of whom are women--but due to the diversity of its symptoms and severity, it remains one of the most difficult conditions to identify and diagnose. In the tradition of the other titles in the First Year (TM) series, The First Year (TM)--Lupus uses a unique approach--guiding readers through their first seven days following diagnosis, then the next three weeks of their first month, and finally the next eleven months of their first year--to provide answers and advice that will help everyone newly diagnosed with lupus come to terms with their condition and the lifestyle changes that accompany it. Starting with the day of diagnosis, Hanger provides vital information about the nature of lupus, choosing the right doctors, treatment options, coping mechanisms, holistic alternatives, and much more. The First Year (TM)--Lupus will be a supportive and educational resource for everyone who wants to take an active role in the management of their condition. Although Lupus is not preventable or curable, this illustrated book explains how symptoms can be treated through prescription medications and self-management strategies.

Genres: Nonfiction, Health, Medical

244 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2003

Reviews

[Tracy Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book in a day. It is very helpful to know you aren't crazy and that it takes years to be diagnosed. This is written from a first hand patient perspective in conjunction with an MD, so the information is genuine. It isn't written like a medical text, but more in the manner of "what to expect when you're expecting". It discusses disease progression, treatments, diet and overlap syndromes. The overlap is what really made me decide to read this, as one autoimmune disease is eventually linked with another and can lead to diagnosis complications. If you have lupus or like me, UCTD/MCTD which has a lupus component, this book is a must read.

[Linnet Caban · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book this morning and finished it this evening. It's clear, easy to understand and will now be my go to guide when my Dad comes to visit next week. I was just diagnosed with overlapping Autoimmune diseases along with SLE. This book Is great as a reference and pass along to my network to help them understand my illnesses.

[Linda Stephens · Rating 4 out of 5]

i have lupus and this was a great book that explained in detail about medicines taken for lupus, different medical issues related to the disease and most important how to cope and live with lupus after your diagnosis.

[Lenette Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my reference books. I always refer back to this and two other books on Lupus.

[Colombe Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a great book if this is your first diagnosis with an invisible illness. It also, gives some great information about Lupus for when you are first diagnosed. However, if you have been living with invisible illnesses and lupus become another one to the list the information will be redundant and the tips and tricks will most likely already be apart of your life.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very helpful. I wish there was an update with more current research but I have another much more daunting book that I plan to read through next.

[Deborah Gebbia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I have lupus and this book has helped me so much . It covers everything you need to know about the first year after diagnosis. A must read!

[Sonya Dickerson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative but not all inclusive, but I do recommend learning about this disease from all perspectives.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you can only buy one book about lupus, I'd recommend this one. I got it from the library and then bought my own copy. It's really concise and informative. A great reference.

[Lisa Bilodeau · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thoughtfully written from a patient's perspective, summing up the info easily. Good companion book with a more medically diagnostic book.

[Naomi Ayala · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very helpful resource: quick overview of what to expect during first year of diagnosis. Very well organized, so it's easy to refer back to sections even when you're not at your best.