Overview
As the long summer nights fade into the chilly evenings of fall, suntans and shades give way to coughing and sneezing. The first signs of thecold and fluseason are upon us.
Psoriasisis caused by adysfunctionalimmune system in which the body mistakenly launches an inflammatory response. This response results in the pink, scaly skin plaques or other symptoms that you commonly see in psoriasis.
It’s well-known that those who are on certainimmunosuppressive medicationsorbiologicsfor theirpsoriasisare at an increased risk for certain infections.
这些药物的地方你在风险增加for infections because it’s attempting to correct the disturbance in your immune system that’s causing the psoriasis.
This can be problematic in certain circumstances since those pathways that are being altered may be crucial for preventing and treating certain infections.
Even though it’s well-known that these medications place you at a higher risk for infections, it’s not very clear if psoriasis itself does.Some have suggestedthat psoriasis itself may place you at an increased risk for pneumonia, but this has not been completely validated.
What makes this even more puzzling is that people with psoriasis inherently have a lower risk for certain skin infections. This is due to some antimicrobial factors that are overexpressed in the skin of those with psoriasis.
So obviously, it’s not so simple. However, if you’re on a biologic or immunosuppressing medication for psoriasis, it’s important that you avoid infections.
Here are four ways to stay healthy this cold and flu season while living with psoriasis.
Or, really just moreleafy greensandcruciferous veggiesin general. Salad greens, such as spinach, Swiss chard, and kale, as well as broccoli and cabbage, are full of rich vitamins and minerals.
Studieshave shown that they contain special immune-boosting compounds too. Filling your plate with these nutritious foods may help protect you from unwanted viruses and more.
Research needs to be done to confirm the link between these types of foods and psoriasis, but paying more attention to these greens and veggies certainly won’t hurt.
Try adding a handful of greens to your morning smoothie, or if you’re a real daredevil, sneak some raw spinach into a regular brownie recipe like nutritionist and registered dietitian Cynthia Sass did inthis recipe.
Alcohol-based sanitizers are appropriate to use and tend to be less irritating than excessive handwashing.
Also, avoidwashing your handsexcessively during the day. Don’t exceed around 10 times. Use lukewarm water with gentle soap. Dove sensitive bar is a great option. Dry thoroughly.
Use a thick cream moisturizer or Vaseline immediately afterward.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands is a great way to prevent infections.
What do curry, yellow rice, and golden milk have in common? They all containturmeric, a bright yellow spice that’s part of the ginger family and used in many Asian and Indian dishes.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a healing substance that’s responsible for most of this spice’s medical benefits, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Research has shown that this spice may also help boost immune health. Try sprinkling it on baked chicken or fish to give it some added color and flavor.
Of course, always talk with your dermatologist before trying any home remedy for your condition.
Regular exerciseis a key part of healthy living. It helps you stay well and in tip-top shape.
Exerciseis especially important for people with psoriasis since they are at a higher risk of having high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart problems when compared to those without psoriasis. Regular exercise may also help maintain a healthy immune system.
If you find that gettingsweaty when exercisingmakes your psoriasis flare up or makes you more uncomfortable, you can consider alternative exercise regimens such as water aerobics and swimming. Swimming and water aerobics are good options if chlorine doesn’t aggravate you.
Walking in the evening hours — when the sun isn’t out — is another good choice. Lifting weights or taking a low-key cardio class are also worth a shot.
Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you enjoy, so you can make it a part of your long-term plan.
Be sure to discuss your exercise regimen with your doctor before starting it.