Nate Berkus opens up about his chronic health issue: “It can be isolating”
The Oprah Winfrey Show two decades ago, Berkus has written several design books, launched a collection of home furnishings with Target, and hosted various TV programs including the HGTV series The Nate & Jeremiah Home Project with husband Jeremiah Brent.A post shared by Nate Berkus (@nateberkus)But nine years ago, life took an unexpected turn.
Berkus was in the midst of filming a television project when he woke up to find a red rash all across his face. Although he initially thought it might have been a skin reaction to a new soap product, the interior decorator wasted no time in getting a professional opinion.He was diagnosed with the chronic, incurable skin condition known as psoriasis and has been managing the physical and psychological effects of the disease ever since.According to the Mayo Clinic, psoriasis causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches which can be painful and make it difficult to sleep or concentrate.
Flare ups can occur in cycles, with the condition present for weeks or months, and then subsiding for periods of time. While treatment and lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms, there is no cure.In a new interview, the 51-year-old spoke frankly about his medical journey and why he was motivated to speak out now.“It’s a bit of a bummer and it can be depressing.
I do all these things in life, try to be a good husband, try to be a good dad, try to eat well, I go to my personal trainers.
