5 Top Tips for Improving Psoriasis in 2019

Do you need a better time to come up with a resolution than the start of a New Year? Let's get inspired with some psoriasis themed activities to kick off an even better 2019.

1. Find a doctor you like

Decide if you like your doctor. What is your gut reaction when reading this question? If it is even a mild no, get a new one. It is surprisingly easy to do if you're prepared to stand by your decision. I interviewed a G.P, and a Dermatologist for my podcast and both of them told me that you should change doctors if you don't get on, or if they don't have the skills set you need. The receptionist should not be the person who dictates your healthcare. Ask them how to swap and then do it.

2. Set goals

Decide on your goals. If you don't have a clear goal, it is hard to measure whether you have been successful. If you can't measure the success of your treatment, it is easy to feel like you are making no or little progress and feel disheartened. It is also easier for your doctors to help you if you are very specific in your goals. Instead of saying - “I hate my psoriasis- get rid of it,” try identifying clearly your most specific problems. “Having genital psoriasis is affecting my sex life because the friction of sex causes pain.” A definite plan can be into place that can target that particular problem. Likewise, you may be frustrated with your wardrobe options- if you identify that as a specific source of stress, it is much easier to solve because it is a smaller problem. You could go to Pinterest and search for Psoriasis friendly fashion for some inspiration. I have several Pinterest boards to inspire me for tricky occasions like evenings out and beach holidays. Solving smaller problems may seem mundane, but they add up quickly.

3. Get comfortable with sharing

If you have genital psoriasis, make sure you tell your doctor! The prevalence of genital psoriasis cannot be confidently stated because people don't tell their doctors when they have it, and yet it is something that can dramatically affect a person's quality of life. I have heard several doctors working in dermatology use a phrase this year which may help you (or variations of it) ‘Psoriasis is my bread and butter.’ Seriously, its so, so common. They have seen genital psoriasis so many times, they will be glad you told them so they can help you. Even with your G.P. Don't be embarrassed- tell your doctor. Also, tell your sexual partner if you have one. It's much better giving them a running commentary on the status of your genital psoriasis than having to halt sex part way through to say ‘erm...can you please stop doing that? I didn't want to say earlier, but pulling my bum cheek is tearing the skin open on the crease, and it hurts- its distracting….ok…er...shall we carry on?’

4. Get a check up

So I know there is a common theme here….but if you haven't been to see your doctor for years because you already know everything- just humor yourself and pop along for a review. New treatments are arriving on the market at a surprising speed at the moment- and not only biologics. The classics are getting a bit of a revamp too.

5. Connect with others

Find someone who is on your wavelength to follow on social media- it's a great way to keep up to date without receiving sterile emails you delete from your inbox immediately. My favorites are Alisha Bridges (Twitter), Holly Dixon (aka GetYourSkinOut on Instagram) and Todd Bello (Facebook). You're reading this, so you already know that Plaque Psoriasis is fantastic too. I love articles by Chris Petit, and VickiN always makes me smile. Her article about psoriasis and the color black is a great place to start. I have a podcast which if your more into auditory is a great place to look at too. It is very imaginatively called The Psoriasis podcast. There is something for everyone, so you don't have an excuse.

What one thing will you do in 2019 to move forward with your psoriasis care? Tell me about it in the comments.