Ways to Combat Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Fatigue
Many people who don’t suffer from psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis will not understand the physical pain and fatigue that goes along with having this disease; especially if you’re suffering from psoriatic arthritis. The pain can get so overwhelming and make you feel miserable.
Connecting fatigue to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
Pain from the arthritic inflammation can become unbearable; some days you may not even be able to get out of bed. This can wipe you out. Not everyone who suffers from psoriasis will experience psoriatic arthritis but everyone with psoriasis at some point will experience fatigue.
I would like to discuss some helpful ways to relieve some of the fatigue you may experience with your psoriasis. First off, always consult your doctor and listen to your body, because everyone’s body is different. However, there are some exercises and stress relievers that have been effective in many people with psoriasis, including me.
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View all responsesSurround yourself with support
Surround yourself with positive and understanding people. I don’t need you to tell me it’s all in my head or I’m just lazy. Don’t tell me to just walk it off or I know someone who cured that by taking this.
Having strong support of family, friends or other people going through what you are; is a great way to stay positive. Removing stressful, negative people from your life will allow you to focus more on solutions; rather than the problem. Join forces with other people who have psoriasis and become part of a community. This way you can share tips, lend support and always encourage each other.
Fight fatigue with a sprinkle of exercise
Try some mild exercises that will help alleviate some of the pain. Swimming and walking are good ways to help combat inflammation pain. In fact, working out in a heated pool has been proven to have positive effects on pain reduction. Exercising in a pool with aqua-aerobics is also beneficial. Working out in a pool takes the stress off the joints making it easier to move. You can also try “range-of-motion” exercises that stretch out your joints, preventing you from getting stiff.
Strength training also has its benefits. Increasing your muscle strength will help stabilize your joints. You should try a lighter weight with a higher repetition of exercises to get started. Free weights are great for strength training. You can look online for more in-depth exercises and videos to help you get started on strength training.
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View all responsesLifestyle changes can help too!
Try and make some lifestyle changes in your everyday life. Never be afraid to ask for help. If you feel too fatigued to handle a task or activity, then reach out for help. If you have been going for days or had major events where you’re busier than normal; set aside time for your body to rest and recuperate.
As always and I have started doing this; watch your diet. Food plays a major role in causing inflammation flare-ups. Eat a variety of well-balanced foods, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or too much caffeine. I have started eating small meals or snacks throughout the day. This takes discipline and try and stay away from smoking.
Overcome fatigue. Improve your condition.
Getting enough sleep is imperative to your health. You need at least 8 hours of sleep to have the energy to combat fatigue. If you fail to get enough sleep, then you’re risking mental fatigue too and that can magnify the problem.
With some small modifications to your lifestyle and a commitment to balanced living, you can manage this disease and prevent the disease from managing you!
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