Thoughts and opinions on phototherapy.

Posted Fri 30 Aug 2024 23.19 by A_Hom

Hi everyone, I was diagnosed with psoriasis in June this year after last year discovering thick scales starting to form on my head. I naturally thought nothing of it until 80% of my head was covered. I initially went to the doctors where they unfortunately let me down multiple times until I had no choice but to go private. A few weeks before my diagnosis I noticed a couple patches on my body, my shoulder, chest and just by my ribcage and after my diagnosis counted myself very very lucky that I had only a few patches on my body and was prescribed Enstilar which seemed to be working wonders on my scalp. However, the last three weeks have proven to be very difficult and now I am covered head to toe in red, flakey, sore and itchy patches which are quite large; Especially on the backs of my legs which make sitting down very painful. Enstilar now is having no effect at all. Every morning I am waking up with more on my body. I am a 19 year old girl and this is having a dramatic effect on how I am feeling and seeing myself. It is quite distressing seeing more red patches than I am my own skin. I am embarrassed for my partner to see my body but am very lucky he is one of the most supportive people including my family. I am still struggling to get a doctor's appointment and don't really want to go private again because it was very expensive. Looking at peoples experiences with medications given to them really frightens me and nausea and sickness being a big side effect is terrifying as I struggle with emetaphobia. I really would like to do phototherapy as speaking to people they have had really positive experiences with this treatment but would really like to gain some more knowledge and here peoples thoughts, opinions and own experiences. Any advice would be so appreciated as I am the only one in my family to be diagnosed. Thank you so much in advance :)

Posted Sat 31 Aug 2024 13.49 by PJ

My Psoriasis started at about your age. I am now 64 and have looked for cures and tried many solutions from creams to diet changes. I feel I am lucky in that I do get periods when it is mild. But I do not know why it gets better sometimes. For sufferers with large scale coverage I would imagine that the NHS would eventually guide you to either phototherapy or systemic treatment as you, no doubt have already googled. Good luck and be persistent. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/psoriasis/treatment/

Posted Wed 29 Jan 2025 16.39 by Jane1970

Hi, don’t know whether you’ll see my reply. I have suffered with Guttate P since l was 7 yo. Now 54 and just having a flare up. So l’ve had UVB treatment before cause l got covered from top to toe with it. It was brilliant. Cleared very quickly. So l’ve purchased my own UVB unit which they aren’t cheap unless you get a secondhand one which is what l have done. I’ve done this because the waiting list to get NHS treatment is around 18 months. No way l was going to wait that long. 2 months down the line with the help of ointment and lots of moisturiser also as this all works very well together l am almost clear.

Posted Thu 30 Jan 2025 11.00 by Dramitkumar

I'm really sorry you're going through this, it sounds incredibly challenging, and it’s understandable that this situation is affecting you emotionally. Psoriasis can be unpredictable, and finding the right treatment often takes time. Phototherapy seems to have helped many people, so it might be worth discussing with a doctor when you get the chance. In the meantime, keeping your skin well-moisturized and using gentle, natural remedies can sometimes provide relief. Many people explore different options to find what works best for them, and some find that using the best Ayurvedic oil for psoriasis with calming ingredients like Neem and Turmeric helps soothe irritation. Managing stress and focusing on overall skin health can also make a difference. You're not alone in this, and it's great that you have a strong support system. I hope you find something that brings relief soon, wishing you healing and comfort!

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