Lupus sucks.

Admit it, we all feel that way.  And Lupus can rob us of so much in our life.  Fun, work, time with family, even sleep. In fact, Lupus sleep disorders are on the rise.

Sleep is so necessary for us as Lupus patients.  Sleep helps us function through out the day and handle our disease better.  But how do we get a better night’s sleep when pain and other stresses so often keep us awake?

One idea you might want to consider, especially if you are sun- and UV-sensitive (as I am) is curbing the amount of Blue Light in your home and especially your bedroom.

Blue Light is a type of UV light that is thrown off by TVs, computers, iPads and CFLs.  Blue Light can actually reduce the amount of melatonin your body produces, causing insomnia and other lupus sleep disorders.  Blue Light, which is similar to other forms of UV, may also cause disease flares in those who are sensitive to UV light.

Lupus patients are predisposed to have lower levels of melatonin to begin with, so anything that reduces natural melatonin may be problematic.

How do you combat Blue Light?

First, turn off computers and electronic devices several hours before bedtime.  Or buy some Blue Light-Blocking filters for your devices, like the ones made by SleepShield.

Try switching from CFLs to LED light bulbs that are biologically corrected to filter out Blue Light, especially in your bedroom. The Good Night Sleep Light from Definity Digital is a good choice.

Turn all light out when you’re in the bed and ready to sleep.  No night lights or lights from the hall.  Turn digital alarm clocks away from you.  Use blackout curtains to hide outside light and cover or turn off any DVD players and other electronic devices to hide light that they put out.

With a little planning and diligence you can improve your lupus sleep disorders, sleep better and feel better.  And where Lupus is concerned, I know we can all use all the help we can get.