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4 ways to ease psoriatic arthritis and its symptoms

Health
4 ways to ease psoriatic arthritis and its symptoms

Nearly thirty percent of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis later in life. While the former targets the skin, the latter causes the immune system to affect the joints. Both are autoimmune disorders. Psoriatic arthritis causes joint pain, swelling, and inflammation, which can often be debilitating. There is no definitive cure for psoriatic arthritis. However, here are some treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle tips that can help manage the symptoms:

Clinical treatment options
While psoriatic arthritis can be managed by making changes in nutrition and home remedies, it is crucial to be aware of clinical options too. This is because natural remedies may not provide immediate relief from worsening symptoms as compared to the clinical treatment options.

Otezla®
Inflammation is one of the significant and most problematic symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, which can make performing daily tasks difficult. This oral treatment option can help manage symptoms like joint swelling, tenderness, and pain. One of the advantages of using Otezla® is that it does not require initial or routine blood tests.

Rinvoq®
It is yet another treatment option used for managing various types of arthritis, including psoriatic arthritis. It helps effectively manage symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with psoriatic arthritis and also protects from irreversible joint damage. Apart from this, Rinvoq® has also been observed to provide relief from skin plaques.

Foods to eat 

Salmon
Rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is highly beneficial for those with inflammatory disorders like psoriatic arthritis. Additionally, salmon and other fatty fish such as albacore tuna, herring, mackerel, and lake trout can help to protect against heart diseases. It is recommended to include fatty fish in the meal plans at least twice a week to keep inflammation at bay.

Whole grains
This includes brown and wild rice, whole-wheat pasta, quinoa, bulgur wheat, and barley. These are packed with fiber and are helpful in maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels tend to cause inflammation of the blood vessel wall. This can trigger psoriatic arthritis symptoms. An average daily intake of 30 grams of whole wheat can benefit those with psoriatic arthritis. 

Garlic
It contains high levels of phytonutrients, which are potent inflammation-fighting nutrients. Garlic can be easily added to soups, curries, as well as salads. Raw as well as roasted garlic also helps to keep the immune system strong along with fighting inflammation. Powdered or packaged forms can deplete the nutrients, hence make sure you use fresh garlic. 

Foods to avoid

Fatty red meat
Fatty red meat is one of the worse foods that trigger psoriatic arthritis symptoms. Overconsumption of such food can lead to an increase in BMI, leading to inflammation flare-up. In addition, it can lower the effectiveness of prescribed treatment options and hinder the recovery process. 

Eggplant
Nightshade vegetables such as eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes have been known to trigger inflammation in some people. A regular intake of these foods can aggravate symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. This is because these vegetables contain solanine, a chemical that may trigger inflammation. However, eggplants, and other vegetables do not trigger psoriatic arthritis symptoms in everyone. A process of elimination can help determine if a person’s psoriatic arthritis is affected by the intake of certain vegetables.

Soda
Soda and other carbonated drinks are infused with high amounts of processed sugar. Intake of artificial sugar can lead to elevated levels of insulin in the body, which can easily trigger inflammation and aggravate arthritis symptoms. 

Tips for managing psoriatic arthritis

Moisturize the skin daily
One of the prominent symptoms of psoriatic arthritis is itchy, dry, and flaky skin, especially near the joints. Hence, doctors suggest applying creams, moisturizers, and emollients to prevent the same. Specific creams for treating psoriasis contain ingredients like coal tar and salicylic acid that can effectively treat dry and flaky skin. However, ensure that the moisturizers used do not cause any underlying conditions that might aggravate the condition.

Use aloe vera
Aloe vera has been long used for several autoimmune conditions, including psoriatic arthritis. It contains anti-inflammatory properties that not only treat skin wounds but also calm itchy and inflamed skin caused due to psoriatic arthritis. Aloe vera is one of the main ingredients in many topical creams. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor to use the same as some people are allergic to other components present in the plant that may aggravate other underlying health conditions which might worsen psoriatic arthritis.

Drink more water
Staying hydrated is essential for healthy skin. While it is recommended to drink eight glasses of water every day for hydration, the required quantity is different for everyone depending on the climatic condition of the location. For instance, people living in humid areas may require less water as compared to the ones living in hot and dry areas. However, it is crucial to maintain hydration as it can reduce the risk of joint inflammation and stiffness.

Psoriatic arthritis is a serious health disease. With the required treatment option, changes in meal plans and lifestyle can help ease the discomfort of the condition’s effect to a great extent. Make sure you consult a doctor as soon as you experience any symptoms of the disorder. 

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Mothers who have recently delivered babies don’t have sufficient nutrition due to the loss of blood and lactation. As a result, they have to carefully choose foods that are rich in calcium, carbohydrate, unsaturated fat, iron, folic acid, protein, and vitamins B6, B12, C, and D. Thankfully, healthy foods and supplements can help them regain strength and supply breastmilk to their newborns. The top four superfoods that can help nursing mothers include: Bananas Bananas are less expensive, available throughout the year, and considered a superfood for nursing moms. They are rich in nutrients, healthy carbs, vitamin B, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Bananas are also abundant in potassium, calcium, and pectin, a source of energy. Experts claim that having a banana every day can help moms regain the energy they need to take care of the baby and breastfeed. Potassium is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the mother’s body and aids in the rampant transmission of nerve impulses.  Bananas can also aid in regulating blood pressure. It can prevent constipation, aid in regular bowel movements, and promote healthy gut bacteria. These fruits can provide about 1/4th of the vitamin B6 required for nursing moms, which is crucial for hemoglobin production and fighting antibodies.
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Dogs get affected with fleas or ticks due to spending time on grassy trails, lush parks, or moist areas. And these pests can cause itching and skin damage if not controlled in time. Flea and ticks leave eggs and larvae on the coat, which can be challenging to eradicate. They can also lead to Lyme disease and other debilitating conditions. Following are tips to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs: Consider the following treatment options Bravecto chew Bravecto chew is a chewable treatment option that you can administer along with your dog’s food. It contains fluralaner, an active ingredient that spreads quickly through the dog’s tissues and the skin. Fleas and ticks in the coat ingest minute amounts of fluralaner, which affects their central nervous system, killing them within 12 hours. One dose of Bravecto is effective for about 12 weeks. If your dog is sensitive to the treatment option and vomits within three hours of ingestion, contact your vet, as it may be less impactful in killing the ticks and fleas. Bravecto is also effective in preventing heartworms and intestinal worms. Simparica This prescription treatment option is ideal for dogs over six months and can be administered monthly.

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