Psoriasis: The Curse Of Scales

Source: cetusnews.com

 

Psoriasis is a skin disorder affecting any part of the body. It appears to be red plaques capped with silver scales and can mostly affect the elbows and knees, shin, lower back, and scalp. Typically, our skin is undergoing 15 cycles before it is completely renewed in 30 days. For people with psoriasis, the skin undergoes a fast renewal process and misses a specific process making it five cycles instead of 15. The affected area then forms scaly plaques which are itchy and inflamed.

 

Symptoms Of Psoriasis:

 

  • Pain and swelling in the affected area
  • Itchiness in the affected area
  • Redness and bleeding in the affected area
  • Silver scales on the red patches
  • Cracks in the dry regions of the extremities
  • Swelling joints
  • Pitting of nails

 

Causes of Psoriasis:

 

Source: londondoctorsclinic.co.uk

 

  • Genes
  • Stress
  • Infections
  • Cuts
  • Alcohol

 

Things To Know About Psoriasis:

 

  • Some studies showed a decrease in psoriasis when patients avoided the consumption of acidic foods or drinks like coffee and soda.

 

  • Some reports suggested that a vegetarian diet contributes to the improvement of symptoms of psoriasis. Eating less protein and more vegetables can aid in treating this condition.

 

  • Alcohol plays a considerable part in the development of psoriasis. According to researchers, heavy drinking can trigger psoriasis, and it increases the risk of some infections.

 

  • Vitamin D can also help in treating psoriasis. Studies show that vitamin D produced from sunlight aids in the treatment of psoriasis. Dr. Michael Holick, M.D., Ph. is a Professor of Medicine and an endocrinologist who studied vitamin D intensively.

 

  • There are different types of psoriasis that can be diagnosed by a physician.

 

Different Types Of Psoriasis:

 

  • Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare but severe type of psoriasis. The skin almost all over the body appears to be burned.
  • Guttate psoriasis consists of small pink to small red spots on the skin.
  • Inverse psoriasis doesn’t cause the skin to be scaly, but it appears to be smooth and shiny on the affected area.
  • Nail psoriasis affects the nails.
  • Palmar-Plantar psoriasis affects the palms of the hand or soles of the feet.
  • Plaque psoriasis is characterized by silver scaly plaques which commonly appear on elbows, knees, and lower back.
  • Pustular psoriasis has pus inside the bumps.
  • Psoriasis of the scalp appears in the head or the scalp.
  • Psoriatic arthritis is a condition where a person with psoriasis also develops arthritis.

 

Source: healthline.com

 

Treatment:

 

  • Dovonex is a prescription cream or ointment known to treat psoriasis.
  • Tegison is a prescription of superpotent vitamin A taken orally also known to treat psoriasis.
  • Multivitamins composed of folic acid and iron are also beneficial in the treatment of psoriasis.

 

Traditional Remedies:

 

  • Olive oil helps in the hydration of the skin.
  • Garlic has a medicinal property which fights sickness and
  • Licorice can help with skin inflammation.

 

Psoriasis is surely an unpleasant skin disorder to have. Just like other diseases, it affects all the aspects of a person’s life, but in psoriasis, a person may have poor social interactions due to fear of scaring people off. However, people should know that psoriasis is not contagious, so there shouldn’t be any fear of getting it by being around a person who has it.

 

It is crucial that the patient seeks the help of a physician in dealing with psoriasis. self-medication might cause a worsening of the condition.

 

Shedding Light On Autoimmune Pancreatitis

  

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Autoimmune pancreatitis, also called AIP, is a medical disorder where the immune system attacks the pancreas. There are instances where there is a misdiagnosis, and symptoms could be that of chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer. It responds to steroid therapy such as a corticosteroid specifically prednisone.

 

Two Types Of Autoimmune Pancreatitis:

  • AIP Type 1 is common to the elders and is IgG4-related. A blood test may reveal a high level of an immunoglobulin known as IgG4. This type of autoimmune pancreatitis affects other organs in the body such as the liver, kidneys, salivary glands, and lymph nodes. People who have AIP type 1 may experience a relapse or the reoccurrence of the condition.

 

  • AIP Type 2 also known as idiopathic duct-centric pancreatitis is common to younger people and only affects the pancreas. Patients who have this condition do not experience a relapse or reoccurrence.

 

Causes Of Autoimmune Pancreatitis:

Like any other autoimmune diseases, the origin of autoimmune pancreatitis remains unclear. Studies show that it could run in the blood or hereditary, but it is still ongoing to finally reveal what’s causing our immune system to attack its own.

 

Source: pinterest.com

 

 Symptoms Of Autoimmune Pancreatitis:

 

  • Dark and cloudy urine can be a sign of this condition. The color of our urine can say a lot about our overall health that’s why it is smart to pay close attention to it sometimes, especially when we are feeling something odd about our body.

 

  • Believe it or not, the color and composition of our stool can also say something about our health. Watch out for pale stools or if they are floating in the toilet.

 

  • Is your skin or eyes yellow? Jaundice often correlates with problems in the pancreas, so having a pale or yellow skin or eyes is not normal and could be a warning that there is something wrong with it.

 

  • Pain could always be a symptom of a problem in our internal organs. Be alert for any discomfort in the upper abdomen or middle region of the back.

 

  • Nausea and vomiting are signs of medical issues, and if you experience them along with any other symptoms, these could be warning signs that you should consult a doctor.

 

  • Are you experiencing unexplainable fatigue? You think you get enough rest and eat the right amount of food but still feel weak. You also don’t engage in hard labor yet you experience extreme tiredness. These could be signs of something else like autoimmune pancreatitis.

 

  • Do you notice something different from your eating habits? It is not normal to lose appetite, especially when you are not taking any medications to cause

 

  • Do you experience unexplainable weight loss? There are many medical health problems that contribute to unexplainable weight loss, but if you are having some symptoms of autoimmune pancreatitis, it is best to get a medical opinion.

 

Diagnosis Of Autoimmune Pancreatitis:

Several tests should be undertaken to determine if a person has autoimmune pancreatitis such as:

 

  • Imaging Tests

 

  • CT scan
  • MRI
  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatograph (ERCP)

 

  • Blood Test

Blood tests could reveal the increased level of the immunoglobulin called IgG4 which is produced by the immune system, but it doesn’t automatically mean that you have autoimmune pancreatitis. Some medical conditions such as pancreatic cancer can cause this as well.

 

  • Endoscopic Biopsy

Through the use of an endoscope, the doctor will get a sample of pancreatic tissue which could determine autoimmune pancreatitis.

 

  • Steroid Trial

Autoimmune pancreatitis responds to steroid treatment. During the steroid trial, the doctor will test if the IgG4 of the patient will be affected by steroid therapy.

 

 

Source: pinterest.com

 

Treatment Of Autoimmune Pancreatitis:

  • Biliary Stenting

It is a procedure where the doctor will need to drain the biliary ducts which are usually for patients with jaundice.

 

  • Steroid Therapy

Autoimmune pancreatitis responds to steroids particularly corticosteroids.

 

  • Immunosuppressants

Immunosuppressants are used to counter the side effects of prolonged use of steroids.

 

There may be other treatments and therapies that can help the condition of autoimmune pancreatitis. Early diagnosis is the key to treating medical health problems. If you experience one or more of the symptoms mentioned above, it is best to consult a doctor to deal with the health issue at once.

Understanding Graves’ Disease

 

What Is Graves’ Disease?

 

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It is a condition where the body produces an antibody to fight against bacteria and viruses which then causes the thyroid to produce excessive hormones. Although it is still unknown as to what causes autoimmune disorders, Graves’ disease is found to be inherited. It commonly affects women than men and usually occurs before 40.

 

Source: pinterest.com

 

 

What Happens When The Thyroid Gland Produces Excessive Hormones?

 

Most of us would want to speed up metabolism to prevent us from gaining weight, and in the condition of the overactivity of the thyroid gland, our metabolism speeds up causing unpleasant symptoms like:

 

  • Anxiety is a mental health issue where a person experiences nervousness, panic, trouble sleeping, rapid heartbeat, cold and sweaty extremities, and shortness of breath.

 

  • Hyperactivity is the condition of the body where it has too much energy. A hyperactive person may seem to not tire and could not stay still.

 

  • Weight Loss is also noticeable with no explainable reason. It is due to the boost in metabolism which contributes to unexplainable weight loss.

 

  • The swollen gland forms a lump in the thyroid commonly called goiter.

 

Where Did It Get Its Name?

 

Graves’ disease got its name after an Irish doctor named Robert J. Graves first noticed and described its symptoms on a patient in 1835. Five years later, a German doctor named Karl Adolph Van Basedow, unknowing of Graves’ findings, also gave the same description of the symptoms on his patient that’s why this disease is commonly known as Basedow’s disease in Europe while it’s called Graves’ disease in the United States.

 

What causes Graves’ Disease?

 

The cause of Graves’ disease is still a question just like with any other autoimmune disorders. Results of most studies about the condition connect it to family history, but then again, more studies are required to prove this theory.

What Are The Symptoms Of Graves’ Disease?

 

  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Tremors
  • Insomnia
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Sweaty hands and feet
  • Swelling of the gland (goiter)
  • Changes in menstrual cycles
  • Erectile dysfunction or decreased libido
  • Frequent bowel movements
  • Bulging eyes
  • Fatigue
  • Thick, red skin on the tops or shins of the feet
  • Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
  • Vision problems
  • Pressure in the eyes
  • Puffy eyelids
  • Reddened or inflamed eyes

 

What Are The Kinds Of Food To Avoid When A Person Has Graves’ Disease?

 

  • Food Allergens

 

When you have allergies to a particular food, avoid eating it. The symptoms of Graves’ disease can somehow be similar to that of allergies, so eating food that you’re allergic to can aggravate the symptoms.

 

  • Caffeine

 

Caffeine is known to cause nervousness and palpitations which are also symptoms of Graves’ disease. It is not wise to consume products that can contribute to the worsening of symptoms.

 

What Are The Kinds Of Food A Person With Graves’ Disease Should Eat?

 

  • Fruits And Vegetables

 

Fruits and vegetables are the primary food source of vitamins and minerals needed by the body to function well. Some of these foods, especially berries, have an antioxidant component that can strengthen the immune system. Although they cannot cure Graves’ disease, they will aid in giving the body extra strength and protection.

 

  • Protein-Rich Food

 

Fatigue or weakness is one of the symptoms of Graves’ disease. Eating foods rich in protein can help strengthen the muscles and gain more energy.

 

  • Food Rich In Vitamin D

 

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin needed by the bones. It works together with calcium to give proper nourishment to the body.

 

  • Dairy Products Such As Milk

 

Milk and cheese are examples of dairy products and are excellent sources of calcium, which work hand in hand with vitamin D to strengthen the bones.

 

 

Can Graves’ Disease Be Cured?

 

Yes, Graves’ disease is curable with some treatment methods.

 

Can Graves’ Disease Cause Death?

 

Yes, Graves’ disease if left untreated can cause severe heart problems and weakened bones. The body overall may weaken and eventually die.

 

Source: pinterest.com

 

 

What Are The Treatments For Graves’ Disease?

 

When you’re diagnosed with Graves’ disease, you will be prescribed with antithyroid medications or may undergo radioactive iodine or removal of the thyroid. These treatments are effective in re-establishing the proper function of the thyroid gland, but there is a chance of relapse.

 

Graves’ disease is indeed a grave medical condition. Just like any disorder, it can affect how a person lives not only physically but psychologically as well. A person diagnosed with this condition may have to deal with it for a long time.

 

This disease can cause isolation and poor self-esteem because it can hinder a person from doing outdoor activities due to poor vision and visible manifestations physically, especially the eyes and skin. Though it is still unclear as to what causes Graves’ disease, observing a healthy lifestyle is always the key to being healthy. If you experience the symptoms above, don’t think twice. See a doctor.

 

Understanding Allergy

 

When the body shows signs of allergy, it means that the immune system reacted to any substance that has entered or contacted by the body, which is commonly harmless to most people. These substances are called allergens. They are evaluated by the immune system as harmful and try to get rid of it. Allergens may vary from person-to-person. You can find it in food, environment, drinks, and other places.

 

Source: pixabay.com

 

Explanation Of Allergy

An allergic reaction will not immediately take place in a scenario when a person comes in contact with an allergen. The immune system will start to become sensitive to the allergen as time goes until it overreacts to this substance. The immune system will start to create antibodies to attack the allergen once it recognizes and remembers this substance which is a process called sensitization.

 

What Causes It

The antibody immunoglobin is the cause of allergic reactions. This antibody is released to fight foreign and potentially harmful substances that get inside the body. It particularly destroys the allergen, which causes a chemical production that activates the allergic reaction. Histamine is one of the chemicals that induce the activation of the allergic reaction, which can trigger muscle tightening in blood vessel walls and airways. It can also induce the production of more mucus in the nasal lining.

 

Symptoms

Symptoms vary from the type of allergen that causes the reaction, which can be internal, external or both. It may become visible on the skin, nasal passages, airways, and the digestive system. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and sometimes life-threatening in rare cases.

 

Here is an index of symptoms from different kinds of Allergy.

Atopic Dermatitis: Eczema will appear in this allergic reaction, which can cause the skin to peel, flake, itch and redden. It gives a lot of body discomfort but it is not life-threatening.

Food Allergy: It can cause hives, swelling of the face, throat, and tongue, and may give a tingling sensation in the mouth. Severe cases may cause anaphylaxis.

Medicine Allergy: It can cause an itchy sensation on the skin, rashes, wheezing, facial swelling, and anaphylaxis if the reaction is severe.

Allergy Due To Insect Sting: The area that is stung can induce edema. Hives can appear over the body with chest tightening, coughing, wheezing and breathing problems such as anaphylaxis.

Hay Fever: It is also known as allergic rhinitis. It is popular due to the continuous sneezing symptom as an allergic reaction. Itching of the nose, eyes and the roof of the mouth are also some common symptoms. The eyes may become swollen, red and watery in conjunction with a runny nose.

 

Source: pinterest.com

 

It is essential to know the type of allergic reaction you have to relieve the symptoms and prevent future breakouts. Identify what causes symptoms to appear and what worsens the condition. Avoid these variables that may cause a trigger for the allergy. Inform your friends and family members if you have any severe case of an allergic reaction in case of a life-threatening breakout.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Autoimmunity Benefits

What Is Autoimmunity?

Is autoimmunity a concern for those who suffer from multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune conditions or disease? Learn more information about autoimmune diseases here in this content.

autoimmune people needs assitance
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Autoimmune

Diseases

Multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, thyroid gland type 1 diabetes, Guillain-Barre syndrome, Addison’s disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, etc. are just one example of autoimmune diseases. It is composed of a broad range of human diseases from the organs of the body’s damaged tissues and skewed immune system, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, myasthenia gravis, graves disease, celiac disease, as well as skin diseases, particularly psoriatic arthritis. Autoantibodies directed proteins called epitopes are released and it attacks the body’s healthy cells, causing high self-reactivity and disrupting regulatory mechanisms.

Though there is a list of notable treatments for autoimmune diseases that aim to prevent and cure the condition, some researchers who monitor autoimmunity therapy said it can be beneficial for the general population or individuals who want to use an alternative process for recovery from what researchers called autoantibodies disease.

So between the actual cause of environmental factors of the autoreactive lymphocytes, an optimal target autoantigen of a possible approach is needed to better find and understand the disorder’s diagnosis.

Also, take note of the illness related to the condition such as autoimmune thyroid disease, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, musculoskeletal and skin diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, organ-specific autoimmune diseases, and other autoimmune diseases. They can produce insulin which your body might not need at the moment.

 Autoimmunity

It’s when the body’s immune system cells fail to identify its cells and own tissues where the immune responses are against healthy plasma cells, automatically launching on its own, hence, the name autoimmunity.

Autoimmunity

Treatment

Nutritional Therapy

Since the autoimmune disorder produces antibodies (consisting of autoreactive b lymphocytes) that attack its autoreactive t cells, an individual must control the secondary autoimmune symptoms instead of addressing the true cause. Nutritional therapy helps maintain the body’s balance by harmonizing the bio-terrain that regulates the immune response activity. Particularly the body parts of the pancreas.

Self-reactive antibodies help in reducing inflammatory infections and trim down damaged T-cells,  keeping them at bay fail.  By taking the right amount of proteins and minerals, the liver develops natural tissue antibodies (NTA) that prevent tissue breakdown and target different antigen receptors in cells before it even gets infection by bacteria. The encouragement of healthy membrane cells recognizes the adapting essential phospholipids and fatty acids that care in cell tissue regeneration.

Some healthy foods to fight autoimmune condition
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Autoimmunity

Gene Therapy

It is a kind of technological therapy for autoimmune disorders that aim to restore the body’s healthy cells, called immune homeostasis. The several forms of the process will counteract the inflammatory tissue specific by triggering the self-reactive cells and auto-reactive lymphocytes before any massive cell destruction. Gene therapy uses the advancement of its possibility to destroy modified autoreactive b cells and insert ‘suicide genes’ into the normal components of the immune system.

It is an efficient way to divide the damaged immune cells and restore their health by integrating stable and well-balanced polymorphic genes that can bring a single protein. Though gene therapy requires tons of extensive physical examination and autoantibody tests, there is a possibility that retroviral transduction can be useful in managing damaged cells and their tissues.

Autoimmune Response

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) Therapy

The theory definition is that the process of IVIg has proven to be safe and effective in treating different targets of autoimmune disorders and deficiencies. Its immunomodulatory actions produce antibodies that regulate the specific organ of the body’s system and reduce the affliction of diseases such as systemic lupus and scleroderma.

Autoimmune

IVIG can directly interact to modulate cytokine function (balancing own tissues or red blood cells based on an immune response) by preventing the immune complexes or the target self-antigens from binding to the already damaged autoreactive t lymphocytes. It also enhances its therapeutic effect and improves cure for the general population or individuals rate by up to 50% due to its mild side effects. Clinical laboratories show that autoimmune treatment can prolong the chances of survival from a clinical disease due to its well-oriented application, improving muscle strength.

Source: commons.wikimedia.org

Autoimmunity

Conclusion

Most medical advice from a doctor and therapists consider these procedures because of the technological advancements in treating immunological disorders. The underlying causes of chronic diseases and inflammatory conditions can have long-term adverse effects.

Therefore, considering possible ways of encouraging therapy is beneficial for those individuals who need to understand the cause of the disease to boost their specific immune response and restore their tissues.

Autoimmunity FAQs

What causes autoimmune?

Autoimmune diseases are caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s own cells and tissues.

Can autoimmune be cured?

Autoimmune diseases cannot be cured, but their symptoms can often be managed to improve the quality of life for people with autoimmunity.

What are examples of autoimmune disorders?

Examples of autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, bowel disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

What are the seven autoimmune diseases?

What happens to autoimmunity?

What are the three most common autoimmune diseases?

Is Covid 19 autoimmune considered an increased risk?

What is the most common autoimmune disorder?

What is the most common autoimmune disease in the world?

How do you prevent autoimmune disease?

Who treats autoimmune?

Autoimmune Disease: You Think You Might Have it?

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Autoimmune disorder mistakenly attacks the healthy cells in your body that can cause an overall impact. There are tons of their types, and each one has its unique symptoms that range from mild to severe cases. Since there has been an increase in autoimmune incidents, researchers are now studying its environmental factor. For instance, exposure to some different types of chemicals can set off an immune response.

Given that there is still no exact evidence of its origin, it could take time to diagnose such disease. However, some of its classic signs are determined through the case of inflammation, fatigue, and muscle aches.

Continue reading “Autoimmune Disease: You Think You Might Have it?”

Knowing The Essentials At The Oklahoma Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month

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Part of the goals of the Oklahoma Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month is to educate the people on the prevalence, and risk factors, and the extreme lack of awareness of the public about autoimmune illnesses. The AARDA (American Autoimmune Related Disease Association) works with community leaders to organize activities and events that help educate the people of the most important points that one must know about autoimmune illnesses. These include:

  • There are more than a hundred autoimmune illnesses in all, which include but are not limited to celiac disease, Addison’s disease, vasculitis, and Crohn’s disease.
  • There are about 50 million people in America with an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases occur in groups. For instance, if you have a relative who has scleroderma, there’s a higher risk that you will develop an autoimmune disease.
  • Only 13% of Americans can name an autoimmune illness.
  • Women are more likely to be affected by autoimmune diseases than men. In fact, autoimmune diseases are among the ten most deadly killers of women 65 years and below.

These details have pushed the AARDA’s President, Virginia Ladd, to increase the level of awareness among the public. According to her, the incidence of some autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, and multiple sclerosis have shown to be increasing yearly, yet solutions to this dilemma are still unknown. She also says that it is important for people to be more vigilant of the factors that make vulnerable to developing autoimmune diseases so that if and when symptoms occur, they can seek help early and begin treatment. Diagnosis and treatment at an earlier stage of the disease make a huge difference in one’s chances of becoming incapacitated or suffering organ failure.

Source: medivizor.com

Organizing events such as this one encourages community members to help in their own little ways in the elimination of autoimmune diseases and the relief of symptoms. It also fosters collaboration, public awareness, and improvement of inpatient services in all areas of the country.

 

What You Need To Do To Be Happier

Being happy is an easy thing to do, as long as you know the steps to follow to make it happen. Make sure that you put several efforts into adding more positivity and happiness in your life. Take note that these are the secrets to having a beautiful life. Do not miss your chance to live the life that you deserve. As early as now, promise yourself that you will do whatever it takes to become happier more than ever. In this article, we are going to provide you with some tips and tricks on how you can achieve a better and happier you.

 

Source: pexels.com

 

“What do you do when you feel like you need a little boost, especially when you’re feeling bad or for every day just to add some good vibrations to your routine?” – Andrea Kane Frank, MS, LCPC, CAPP

 

Believe In Yourself

 

The first step that you must do is to look at yourself in the mirror every day and remind yourself how great and amazing you are. You have to make an effort to recognize all your great qualities. Stop having doubts about yourself because it can only increase the bad vibes for the day. Instead, take a moment to list down the reasons why you are a fantastic human being. Once you master this, it will be a lot easier for you to put a smile on your face and to inspire others.

 

Build Friendships

 

One of the ways on how you can become happy is to establish connections to like-minded individuals. Make friends with people whom you think can have a good influence over you. Do not be afraid to foster relationships with others, especially if you think that these persons are helping you to feel better about yourself. On the other hand, never have doubts about walking away from people who continue to bring you down. Keep in mind that they are the ones who can prevent you from experiencing a good life.

 

Source: pexels.com

 

“Living in constant stress mode will make you sick indeed.” – Allan R. Cohen, PsyD

 

Be Physically Active

 

Another thing that you must consider is to follow a healthy lifestyle by being physically active. Find time to go to the gym, do a quick morning run, try yoga outdoors, or perform home exercises. Take note that you must never be too busy when it comes to exercising. When you become physically active, you are not only preventing yourself in experiencing illnesses. At the same time, you are also contributing to your overall mental wellness. As a result, you will become happier than ever.

 

Avoid Stress At All Costs

 

Of course, you must also convince yourself to try to avoid any forms of stress. Learn how to determine what are those that annoy you easily and avoid them. At the same time, figure out the kinds of persons that make it easy for you to get angry. Make sure that you find a way to keep them at a distance. In so doing, you will begin to feel better about your days. Take note that you are the one who can control your thoughts. Be sure that you will only think of positive thoughts at all times.

 

“Much of what you may be fantasizing about may not be accurate, so letting go of your thoughts and addressing how they impact your feelings, are crucial steps in moving on.” – Rachel Dack, LCPC

 

Source: pexels.com

 

The secrets to having a better life are provided above. All you have to do is to familiarize them and make it a way of life!

 

How To Handle A Loved One Suffering From An Illness

Is your loved one suffering from a chronic illness? Does it break your heart to see him suffer from pain? Are you interested in eliminating his stress and anxiety? If you answered yes to all these, then it is time for you to consider reading the rest of this article. For today’s write up, we are going to focus on the different ways on how you can help a loved one with a chronic illness.

 

Source: pexels.com

 

Before you proceed, you need to consider the reality that your loved one may change his personality or attitude because of the illness. Remind yourself that he is suffering from excruciating pain and there are only baby steps available for him to make things right. Because of this, you must see to it that he remains positive despite the adversities. Below are some of the top techniques that you must-do if you want to handle a loved one who is suffering from a chronic illness:

 

Bridget Levy, LCPC said “You need to know what you like and dislike, what you’re comfortable with versus what scares you, and how you want to be treated in given situations.”

 

Learn About The Illness

 

As much as possible, find time to educate yourself about the medical condition of the other person. Accompany him in the medical checkup so that you can also have a one-on-one conversation with his physician. Do not forget to inquire about the signs and symptoms of the medical condition. Keep yourself informed at all times because it can help you think of better ways on how you can deal with the other person.

 

Source: pexels.com

 

Be Available At All Times

 

Now is the time of your loved one’s life that he needs you the most. As such, you must make him feel that you are available at all times. You must give him a guarantee that you will be around whenever he needs help or assistance. Aside from this, it is also essential for you to give him comforting words so that he will start to feel better. Be ready whenever he needs to discuss his frustrations and problems. Be his source of strength and energy.

 

Andrea Kane Frank, MS, LCPC, CAPP said “It’s great to surprise someone with appreciation or to just say hello.”

 

Keep Your Cool

 

Always put in mind that the way you act around your loved one has a lot of effect on his mindset. Because of this, it is ideal if you will make an effort to remain calm and cool about his sickness. Stop making a big fuss or deal out of it as it can only increase his stress levels. You can show your care and affection to the other person but avoid overdoing it. Otherwise, you will end up offending him or making him feel that he is worthless. For sure, you do not want him to experience self-pity. As such, the right thing to do is to cheer him up every chance that you can get. Avoid showing him that you are sad or problematic because of his condition. Be a ray of sunshine that will make him smile every now and then.

 

Source: pexels.com

 

Take note of the tips and techniques mentioned above and be prepared to experience better days with your loved ones. Do not let his chronic illness make you grow apart from each other.

 

Deborah Serani, PsyD said “What you say can have a powerful impact on your loved one.”