Me And What I Know About Plaque Psoriasis

Hey, there folks. Today, I want to share with you all about my journey with plaque psoriasis. It has been sixty long years since this illness.  Over the years, I have been on many different medications and several biologics for over twenty years. I was doing pretty good with the skin, but these past few months my system has gone haywire.

Learning more about psoriasis

I haven’t had a flare this bad in twenty years. The PsA started acting up first and then the skin. This is a skin condition that I have been struggling with for quite some time now. It is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin cells, causing them to build up and form scales and itchy, red patches.

When I was first diagnosed with plaque psoriasis, I had no idea what it was. I was 5 years old, but don’t remember having psoriasis until I was six.  Yeah, I probably remember this so well because, on my first day of school, I wasn’t allowed to attend.  They thought I was contagious, but that’s another story.

I remember my parents being scared and overwhelmed by all the information that was given to them by doctors. However, as the years went by, I started to learn more about the condition and how to manage it.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach

One thing that I have learned is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating plaque psoriasis. What works for one person may not work for another. It took some trial and error, but eventually, I found a treatment plan that worked for me. It was hard to find most of the things that work for me, but I think it was worth it.

Keeping my skin moisturized

One of the most important things that I do to manage my condition is to keep my skin moisturized. I use a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer twice a day, especially after showering or bathing. Aloe Vera gel really helps in soothing my skin after taking a shower. I also try to avoid using harsh soaps and hot water and spending too much time underwater which can further irritate my skin. So, my shower time has reduced, and the products have shifted to more organic, and paraben-free products are filling up my racks.

Topical creams

In addition to moisturizing, I also use topical creams and ointments prescribed by my dermatologist. These are a little bit stronger than the creams on the shelves. These medications help to reduce inflammation and slow down the production of skin cells. It is important to follow the instructions carefully when using these medications, as they can have side effects if not used properly. I have kept my doctor’s prescription as a holy grail, and it really helped me in managing my plaques.

Changing my diet

I have also made some changes to my diet to help manage my condition.  Try and avoid foods that are known to trigger inflammation, such as processed foods, refined sugar, and saturated fats. Instead, I try to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Also, down 60 pounds!!

You are not alone

Living with plaque psoriasis can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. It is important to seek support from loved ones and to find ways to manage stress. For me, yoga and meditation have been helpful in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Because watching those scaled patches on your body is not an easy thing to digest and I have had a good share of crying spells and being up many nights with anxiety.

If you are struggling with plaque psoriasis, know that you are not alone. There are many resources available, including support groups and online communities. With the right treatment plan and support, it is possible to manage this condition and live a fulfilling life. You got this!