Lupus is often referred to as an “invisible disease” because its symptoms — such as fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes—are not always visible to others. This can make it difficult to diagnose and, at times, hard for people to understand the daily challenges faced by those living with the condition.
Lupus, though, is a very real disease, affecting the lives of more than 1.5 million Americans. It can affect multiple systems in the body, causing significant pain, inflammation, and fatigue.
However, with the right treatment, support, and therapies like using a hot tub, those living with lupus can successfully manage their symptoms. By prioritizing self-care and finding a treatment plan that works for them, people with lupus can maintain a fulfilling life and improve their overall quality of life.
What is lupus?
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation and damage throughout the body. It can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain, making diagnosis difficult since symptoms vary widely from person to person. Common signs of lupus include fatigue, joint pain and swelling, skin rashes — especially a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose — fever, hair loss, and sensitivity to sunlight. Because lupus mimics other conditions, it can take months or even years for someone to receive an accurate diagnosis.
The exact cause of lupus is unknown, but research suggests a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors contribute to its development. According to the Mayo Clinic, certain triggers may lead to lupus flare-ups. Those triggers include infections, certain medications, and prolonged exposure to sunlight. While not everyone exposed to these triggers will develop lupus, they can worsen symptoms in those who already have the condition.
Lupus can affect anyone, but some people are at a higher risk for the autoimmune disease. Women between the ages of 15 and 44 account for the majority of lupus cases. The disease is more common in people of African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American descent, according to research. In addition, if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases, you might be more likely to develop lupus.
While there is no cure, early diagnosis and proper management can help people with lupus reduce flare-ups and improve their quality of life.
Therapy and treatment for lupus
Life changes when you are living with lupus. It can be difficult to manage the pain, lifestyle changes, and emotional ups and downs of living with a chronic autoimmune disease.
Since lupus affects multiple systems in the body, treatment looks different for everyone. Managing symptoms and reducing flare-ups often requires a mix of medications, lifestyle changes, and self-care strategies tailored to each person’s needs.
A rheumatologist or healthcare provider can help create a treatment plan that fits your needs. Depending on your symptoms, they may prescribe medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or antimalarials to help control lupus and prevent complications.
Holistic and lifestyle-based approaches, though, also plan a very important role in lupus symptoms. Many people find relief through stress management techniques, physical activity, balanced nutrition, and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and mindfulness practices. Including hot tub therapy into your routine, also known as hydrotherapy, also helps ease joint pain and muscle stiffness.
Since lupus symptoms and triggers vary, it’s important to have open communication with your healthcare team about treatment options and lifestyle adjustments.
4 ways to manage lupus
Take time for self-care
Stress can worsen lupus symptoms or cause a flare. It’s important to find ways to manage stress and take time for yourself. Activities that help calm your mood and leave you rejuvenated are worthwhile, whether it’s reading a book or writing in a journal.
A hot tub by Master Spas can be a place to unwind and relieve stress. The combination of warm water, hydrotherapy jets, and LED lights provide a relaxing atmosphere. You can also stream a calming playlist and escape the noise of daily life.
Find a heat source
The stiffness and muscle pain associated with lupus can benefit from heat, like sitting in a sauna or soaking in a hot tub. The warm water of the spa helps to ease stiffness and relieve pain, as well as stop muscle spasms.
The water of a Master Spas hot tub can be set up to a soothing 104 degrees. Simply press the arrows on the control panel to dial in your perfect temperature.
Massage
Regular massage can help people who struggle with chronic conditions that cause pain, including lupus. It can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and ease joint pain and stiffness. According to Lupus News Today, a weekly massage session is best but a monthly massage provides benefits, as well.
With a hot tub by Master Spas, though, people living with lupus can have 24/7/365 access to the therapeutic benefits of massage. The hot tubs are built with premium jets, which deliver a hydrotherapy massage. Each hot tub features different seating and jet arrangements so that you can target the areas that need it most.
Move when you can
Exercise can help maintain mobility and flexibility, making it easier to move throughout the day. But for people living with lupus, it’s important to focus on light to moderate exercise and be mindful of how your body feels.
Warm water offers a therapeutic alternative to traditional exercise. The buoyancy of water increases mobility while taking stress off the joints. People living with lupus will be able to move more freely without impact. A swim spa by Master Spas can be a safe place to exercise but a hot tub can also be used to stretch and move.
Related post: 10 Stretching Exercises for Your Hot Tub
Lupus Foundation of America and Master Spas
The Lupus Foundation of America is dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by lupus through research, advocacy, and support programs. The foundation works to drive advancements in lupus treatment, fund groundbreaking scientific studies, and provide resources to help individuals manage the disease. LFA also raises awareness about lupus, advocating for better healthcare policies, and increased funding for research.
Master Spas has been a long-time supporter of the Lupus Foundation of America, with a personal connection to the cause. Founder Bob Lauter has actively worked to raise both awareness and funding, helping to improve the lives of those living with lupus.
This April, Master Spas is matching donations made to the foundation, up to $25,000. Through April 30, 2025, people can contribute to enhancing the quality of life for those living with lupus.
By donating, you can help advance better treatments, earlier diagnosis, and improved quality of life for the 1.5 million Americans living with lupus.
How to buy a hot tub in 2025
Are you ready to invest in your well-being and backyard? Master Spas hot tubs can be enjoyed this year and many years to come. You can click here to learn more about the benefits of hydrotherapy. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about hot tub ownership. Wondering how much a Master Spas hot tub costs? You can request a quote here.