The Advice you need
Disclaimer: Medical advice is for guidance only and does not substitute seeing a doctor. If you have concerns, a face-to-face appointment with a doctor is recommended.
Ask our doc
With Cheryl Lythgoe, Matron at mutual healthcare provider, Benenden Health
Q Every winter my psoriasis flares up – I get so cold and want to layer up, but it really irritates my skin. What can I do to ease it?
A During the winter it’s common for psoriasis to become worse and leave sufferers itchy and sore.
There are lots of things that you can try to prevent or minimise these flare-ups though.
Firstly, ensure you have a healthy diet with lots of water.
When looking at skin hydration, increasing your moisturising routine can help to reduce the irritation and redness, so consider asking your GP for a prescription moisturiser.
Try wearing soft, natural fibres that will not rub or cause irritation as your base layers.
Shower or bathe in warm water and use a dehumidifier.
If you are struggling, see your GP as they may change your medication.
Q With the festive season approaching, I’m worried for my stomach. When I eat rich food, I vomit. Why?
A During times of celebration, many of us adjust our normal diets both in the types of foods eaten and the quantity.
The increase of rich foods can make us feel, or actually be, sick.
Our bodies work extra hard to digest and metabolise rich, fatty foods, so when we flood the body with these it has no choice but to step up and work harder.
Our gallbladder struggles as the stomach has to produce more enzymes and acids to absorb additional foods.
When one or all of these symptoms are placed under stress it’s common to cause nausea, vomiting and pain.
Limit the amount of rich foods you eat, drink plenty of water and ensure you give your body a rest and have a day of eating plain, simple and easily digestible foods.
If symptoms don’t settle, see your doctor.
Q My little girl has been complaining of getting headaches and not being able to see properly when we turn the Christmas tree lights on. Could there be something wrong?
A The majority of Christmas tree lights use LEDs, which can provide challenges for those who are light sensitive or sensory over stimulated.
We also find that at this time of year we have an increase in reflective surfaces, such as all those shiny baubles and wrapping paper.
LED lights primarily tend to have a higher-thannormal concentration of blue light, which can have a negative effect on our eyes and brain.
Too much exposure to these can cause eye pain, headaches and dizziness.
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