As it continues to get colder outside, many people living with immune-mediated conditions may notice their symptoms worsening. Cold weather can cause blood vessels to tighten, which can lead to more joint pain, stiffness, and discomfort in the hands and feet. For example, this may cause people with rheumatoid arthritis to feel increased joint pain on colder days.
Winter can also affect the skin and immune system, thus affecting those living with psoriasis. Less sunlight and dry indoor air can trigger psoriasis flares, making skin more itchy, dry, or inflamed. Lower vitamin D levels have also been linked to worse symptoms in many immune-mediated conditions, namely rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel diseases. In addition to this, the shorter days of sunlight can lower mood and increase stress, which may further contribute to flares.
It is important to stay warm, protect your skin, supplement with Vitamin D, and limit time in extreme cold to help reduce winter flares. Do not neglect your biologic during this season and make sure you are reaching out to your pharmacist at Charlton Health or your specialist if symptoms become harder to manage.
Joyce Ayad is a pharmacist at Charlton Health who believes in providing patient-focused care, supported by her previous experience working with specialty drugs, the pharmaceutical industry, and more.
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