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Anyone pick at it? Also question for Veterans.

I know it sounds gross.... but am I alone in picking off the plaque psoriasis. I'm always scratching and picking off the white patches... my family calls it Daddy Powder.

I've never scarred from it. The skin below heals without any marks at all.

Also, any vets have psoriasis covered on disability? I have 30% but think I should get 60% since I'm on Embrel. I'm not 40% of skin surface, but still have it everywhere. Head, elbows, knees, hands, groin, ass, calves and feet. Any tips to fighting the VA?

  1. Hi Snayjay, I am willing to bet that you're not alone in picking your psoriasis! I used to pick and peel off the skin a LOT when I was younger. I think for me personally it really made my psoriasis quite angry and sore, so now I only really allow myself to pick at my scalp (got to get my picking fix somehow!).

    I hope we have someone here who can offer information or experience on the disability question - if I can find any information I'll be sure to pass it on!

    Thanks so much for contributing to the community!

    1. You would have to go through comp and pen to reevaluate your percentage of disability. Some can get there disability upped and some are left in the cold.

  2. Unfortunately I don't know much about VA, but I can say that I struggle with picking as well. I usually do it without realizing I am doing it, so it takes a lot of self-awareness to not pick. You might want to consider contacting National Psoriasis Foundation about the disability. They have a Navigation Center that helps with that kind of stuff and may have some answers and resources for you. Best of luck!

    1. Hello, I’m New the community and to plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. I’ve been on Methotrexate, steroids, and Otesla. With no relief, I began Cimzia injections. I am covered in plaques on my arms, legs, back, feet and the palms of my hands. The hands are the worst. I pick, peel and scratch all over. I tried light therapy but wound up burning terribly. I sleep with the gloves but by morning I have ripped them off and scratched like crazy. I cut my nails down low so I could not do too much damage. Does anyone know how long the flare ups last?

      1. Hi, , I hope things have improved for you. I know I say this a lot, but from experience, diet is really a key component for us. The biologics and light treatment are parts of the regimen, but I have found, without the biologics or light (I do try to get out into the sun when I can), that when I strictly follow the Pagano diet, there is tremendous improvement in my psoriasis.

        It's not a cure, but it is a major component. Combined with the other therapies, it may help you a lot. During this COVID-19 lockdown, I recently cracked and went off the diet. I'm now dealing with a flareup. It takes a few weeks to improve, just a day to undo.

        BUT - Keeping a healthy mindset is important. Knowing that there are those who totally understand and those going through it really helps. Stay optimistic and laugh as much as you can.

      2. Hi , I totally agree with you. Keeping a healthy mindset is so important. We are so glad you are apart of this community. You are not alone! Laughter is the best medicine 😀 Thank you for posting.
        Jill, Community Moderator

    2. Hi, I received my first two injections last week. I’m hoping it will calm things down. Thank you.

      1. Hey -
        How are you making out since the injections? Are you seeing any improvement?

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