How Will Psoriasis Affect Your Social Life?
- A condition like psoriasis can lead to some embarrassment in social situations, but it shouldn’t have any effect on your true friendships.
- Psoriasis is rare relapsing (chronic) autoimmune skin condition that is characterized by red, itchy patches that form on the affected person's skin.
- Having a good support system can make a huge difference when struggling with chronic health conditions; a little compassion can really go a long way.
Understanding Psoriasis
Psoriasis is rare relapsing (chronic) autoimmune skin condition that is characterized by red, itchy patches that form on the affected person's skin. These plaques (patches) occur when the life cycle of skin cells is sped up (hyperproliferation), which results in excess cells building up on the skin (creating inflammation of the skin's outer layers). Related: 'I'm Single and Have Psoriasis. How Does This Affect My Dating Life? What About Sex?'People who have this condition may not even know they have it as it often is asymptomatic until an outbreak occurs, with outbreaks being reported to sporadically occur, lasting anywhere from 1 month to 12 months. Common symptoms associated with psoriasis include:
- Small scaling spots
- Swollen or stiff joints
- Burning, itching, or soreness of the skin
- Small scaling spots
- Cracked and dry skin that may itch or bleed
- Ridged or thickened nails
- Red patches of skin covered with silvery scales
What is Psoriasis? Understanding the Different Types and Symptoms of This Rare Skin Condition
Why Emotional Support Matters
It’s so important to have supportive loved ones and uplifting friendships as you go through a health battle or face a health condition. Many people may have misconceptions about psoriasis. They may think there’s a simple fix, like an over the counter cream, or that it’s some sort of contagious ailment both of these things are untrue.
Initially, if you’ve just received a psoriasis diagnosis, you may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed talking about it with others. But as with many conditions, talking about what you’re going through can be a big help.
Sarah Ciuffetelli, who has been dealing with psoriasis since she was a young child, told SurvivorNet that sharing her story and her experience with the condition turned into a way of coping for her. She created an Instagram account and was quickly met with praise and feedback from others who had similar struggles.
Sarah Ciuffetelli shares her experience of learning to live with psoriasis.
"I really started my healing, my mental healing journey, with psoriasis when I opened my Instagram account. I know that sounds really funny, but it was a secret account. No one knew it was me, my face didn't appear … It was a way of me showing the world what I looked like without actually revealing who I was," Sarah explained. "Through that, I was getting lots of positive comments, lots of people thanking me for sharing it and being so open about it."
Questions to Ask Your Doctor:
- Are there local support groups or therapists who specialize in helping people struggling with a chronic condition?
- What can I do if I am uncomfortable showing my skin?
- Can mental health be part of my treatment plan so I get the support I need?
Contributing Writer: Laura Gesualdi-Gilmore
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