1. < Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)

Can light ( especially UV light) help autoimmune diseases like PMR ?

Posted by linda7 @linda7, 2 days ago

I found this recent article on the topic: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/surprising-ways-that-sunlight-might-heal-autoimmune-diseases/. I didn't know that people in lower latitudes have more skin cancer but less disease overall. I'm wondering if part of the effect is just spending more time outdoors and being more active. Also fresher fruits and vegetables are available in warmer, sunnier places throughout the year. The article talks about a UV light box helping a patient with MS.

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John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | 2 days ago

Interesting article @linda7, thanks for sharing. My PMR is in remission but I can relate to feeling a lot better on a nice sunny day and being outside.

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mark2471 | @mark2471 | 2 days ago

This is interesting as it is well known that the highest incidence of PMR is in Scandinavian women in Northern Europe as well as Minnesota. Thanks for pointing this aricle out to us.

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randersonccc | @randersonccc | 1 day ago

Thank you. I’ll dig out my light and give it a try.

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cchantiles | @cchantiles | 22 hours ago

Hi, if anyone finds a light that is suggested, please let me know. It's worth a try for many reasons for me. Thank you

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1 reply
linda7 | @linda7 | 3 hours ago
In reply to @cchantiles "Hi, if anyone finds a light that is suggested, please let me know. It's worth a..." + (show)
@cchantiles

Hi, if anyone finds a light that is suggested, please let me know. It's worth a try for many reasons for me. Thank you

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The article gives details about the type of light box used and where the MS patient got it. Apparently you can get a prescription for it for certain skin conditions and it is being used in clinical trials for other autoimmune diseases. The research on this is in the very beginning stages. I just thought it was interesting and I am considering ways to increase my natural sun exposure while being careful about skin cancer.

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