Surviving The Seasons With Psoriasis
The change in weather can be rough on normal skin but when you have psoriasis you can use all the help you can get to survive the change of seasons.
The cold temperatures and wind of winter can be harmful to skin. The individual with psoriasis has some special challenges during this time of year. During the winter months there is usually less sunlight and we also block some of the available winter light by bundling up against the cold. We usually crank up our indoor heating, which can also cause stress to our skin. Winter illnesses that thrive in fluctuating temperatures can affect our immune systems. How do we combat these affects of winter and the special challenges this season brings when we have psoriasis?
In winter, first devise a plan of attack with your doctor or dermatologist that addresses all of the winter challenges. Wear clothing made out of cotton whenever possible. Keep humidifiers filled with water and in use. Utilize all skin care options and know what products work best for you, before you need them. Take good care of your general health.
Your doctor or dermatologist can help you come up with a plan that will address all of your winter concerns. The plan can include treatment options; modifications in your daily routine, phototherapy and general tips on clothing and skin care products. Humidifiers are important for use in homes and in the workplace during winter months.
If you suffer from guttate psoriasis, strep infections that are often seen in the winter months can lead to flare-ups of your psoriasis. Other winter infections can also aggravate sensitive skin and cause you to perhaps be more susceptible. To combat these infections give your body a fighting chance by eating a balanced diet, drink the recommended amount of daily water, and establish a good sleep routine that allows you to get plenty of rest each night.
Warm weather is the time when most people love to show skin and enjoy the warmth of the sun. Individuals with psoriasis tend to avoid the normal summer clothing for fear of exposing red, patchy skin that others will see. Dermatologists often hear from their patients that they hide their psoriasis by covering up their skin even in the warmest weather months. Dermatologists also know that certain medications do not combine well with sunlight or may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight such as medications used in phototherapy. When taking these medications and then exposing skin to sunlight, you run the risk of painful sunburns and a higher incidence of skin cancer. To avoid this complication ask for advise from your doctor before each new medication, moisturize your skin often, especially after a bath or shower and wear loose fitting clothing that is made of natural fibers, such as cotton. Footwear that will be more comfortable in the warmer months includes sandals.
Remember to eat in moderation and include a proper balance of all the food groups, avoid alcohol and tobacco products in order to keep your body healthy and in the best shape to heal from psoriasis.
