To say we are under some anxiety and stress right now is an understatement. We are all traveling through uncharted waters at this time—taking it day by day.

While many things might be out of our control, the one thing in our control is how we are handling the stress of everything. That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Lake Oswego wants to share some ways you can manage stress and boost your immune system.

How Does Stress Weaken Your Immune System?

When you are stressed, your body goes into fight-or-flight mode. When that happens, there is a release of hormones and chemicals like adrenaline and cortisol that can actually cause your immune system to weaken.

Therefore, you want to make sure you are managing your stress effectively to keep your immune system working at its optimal level.

Ways to Manage Stress

• Take a time-out from daily activity.
• Eat well-balanced meals.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake.
• Get enough sleep.
• Exercise daily.
• Take deep breaths.
• Count to 10 slowly.

What Steps Can You Take to Boost Your Immune System?

Now—more than ever—we want to make sure we are doing all we can to improve our immune systems, as the immune system is what helps to fight off diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and/or toxins.

Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do in order to help strengthen your immune system, such as not smoking, eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly and getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night. If you are having trouble sleeping, there are things you can do to help improve your bedtime routine.

Tips to Build a Better Bedtime Routine

• Give yourself time to decompress from your day.
• Turn off all electronics at least an hour or two before bed.
• Eat a light, pre-bedtime snack.
• Take a warm bath two to three hours before bed.
• Go to bed at the same time every night.
• Keep your bedroom cool and dark.

In need of medical care? Give us a call at AFC Urgent Care Lake Oswego before heading to our urgent care center, as we have important instructions for you prior to entering the clinic.