Nara Smith, a 23-year-old internet personality and culinary creator, recently shared a deeply personal journey of battling eczema and her eventual lupus diagnosis. Known for her creative, home-cooked recipes, Nara revealed how her health struggles reshaped her lifestyle and influenced her passion for making food from scratch.
In an interview with Who What Wear, Nara candidly discussed how her health challenges, including severe eczema and the autoimmune disease lupus, motivated her to reevaluate her diet and adopt a more holistic approach to well-being.
A Journey Through Eczema: More Than Skin Deep
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes dryness, itchiness, and inflammation. For Nara, the flare-ups were more than an inconvenience—they became a catalyst for change. This condition, which often starts in childhood but can persist into adulthood, can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as:
- Dry, cracked skin
- Intense itching
- Swollen, discolored rashes
- Small, raised bumps
- Raw, sensitive skin from scratching
While not contagious, eczema can severely impact quality of life, especially during severe flare-ups. Nara’s decision to take control of her health by modifying her diet and lifestyle demonstrates the importance of proactive self-care for chronic conditions.
Lupus Diagnosis: A Life-Altering Revelation
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During her pregnancy, Nara’s health concerns took a more serious turn with a lupus diagnosis. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues and organs, leading to inflammation in various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, and heart.
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Nara explained how this diagnosis forced her to reassess what she consumed. "I had to reevaluate how I eat and what I put into my body," she said. Her commitment to healthier eating became central to managing her symptoms. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, while there is no specific diet required for those with lupus, making nutritious choices can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve overall health.
Recognising the Symptoms: When to Seek Help
Both eczema and lupus share a wide range of symptoms that can vary from person to person. While eczema often presents with skin-related issues, lupus can affect multiple organs and systems. According to Dr Hema Soujanya, Consultant, Dermatologist, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, here are some symptoms.
- Persistent dryness and cracking of the skin
- Discolored rashes that may ooze or crust over
- Thickened or raw patches from frequent scratching
Symptoms of Lupus include,
- Joint pain and swelling
- Persistent fatigue
- Skin rashes, including the characteristic "butterfly rash" on the face
- Fever, headaches, or chest pain
It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen, interfere with daily life, or suggest complications like infections.
A Message of Resilience
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Nara’s journey with eczema and lupus highlights the power of resilience and adaptability. Her story serves as a reminder that while chronic conditions can pose significant challenges, they can also inspire transformative changes in lifestyle and perspective.
By sharing her experiences, Nara encourages others to take charge of their health, find joy in daily routines, and embrace creative outlets for healing and growth.