One of the most common
questions we receive is inquiring whether it is "ok" for people with
Lupus to get a tattoo.
The Lupus Foundation of America
has this to say about the subject:
"There are no specific
problems that have been associated with tattoos in lupus
patients. Keep in mind the small risk of infection with
hepatitis B and C. Occasionally lupus patients have been known
to have a reaction to the tattoo dye but this is very rare.
Remember, if you are on immunosuppressive medication, this may
increase the chances of infection and slow healing of the tattoo
area. As with other procedures, it is best done when you are in
remission or a welled controlled mild disease state. Consult
with your physician prior to getting your tattoo."
Also, if you are on blood
thinners you may not be able to sit for long sessions. The
longer someone is being tattooed, the more the skin is irritated and
the more they bleed, pushing the pigment back out in spots. This
does not apply to small tattoos (under 1 hour) or to black and gray
tattoos.
Kendra has thought about
getting a tattoo for many years but was afraid of the pain and
healing time. For her 30th birthday in January 2008 she
decided to go for it. She wanted to get a tattoo that
represented her passion and work for the Lupus Awareness Cause so
she chose a purple butterfly carrying a purple ribbon. To add
dimension a second color was added to the butterfly. A blueish
teal was chosen in honor of Kendra's sister who has Scleroderma.
Kendra having Lupus and
Fibromyalgia was nervous about the pain, however found the entire
process to be only slightly painful, perhaps comparable to a shallow
sting. Kendra is also on immunosuppressives and
was very diligent about aftercare. The tattoo healed up
perfectly with no infection or complication within 1 week. Since getting the
tattoo, we have gotten several compliments and even a few very
flattering copies. Email us pictures of your Lupus tattoo to
webmaster@cure4lupus.org.
| Kendra on her Birthday (tattoo 1 wk. old) |
Close-up of the Tattoo |
 |
 |
