Q&A with Faye
We spoke to Faye about her experiences of living with psoriasis, including what she wants other people to know about the condition and the advice she would give to someone who is newly diagnosed.
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I was diagnosed in November 2007 when I was 14 after being bit by a spider it
got infected which triggered psoriasis.
How does your psoriasis affect you?
My psoriasis affects me every day as it’s something I have to manage, my psoriasis changes from day to day so I need to keep an eye on it. It causes pain and itchiness when it is flaring. I have to treat it daily-weekly depending on the severity of the flare.
How do you treat/manage your psoriasis?
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When my psoriasis was at its worst I was put on methotrexate after all ointments weren’t working, now my psoriasis is under control I treat my scalp with steroid treatment every other week or weekly if it’s flaring & put steroid cream on the psoriasis on my body.
What do you wish other people knew about living with psoriasis?
I wish people knew how much it affects our mental health and self-esteem. When I was diagnosed with my psoriasis I felt very lonely, isolated and afraid. I felt like the only person in the whole world suffering but that wasn’t true over 250 million people live with psoriasis. It has taken me years and years to learn that I am not alone and there is nothing to be afraid of!
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My advice is to take time with yourself and your psoriasis journey, you will have highs and lows and it’s ok. Be open with your family/friends/loved ones, don’t suffer alone. There are so many people who are just like you and if you feel alone you are not, I’m here and I have it too! If you suspect you have psoriasis please contact your GP and you will get some answers soon. Just remember we are all in this together!
Faye also shares her experiences of living with psoriasis, axial spondyloarthritis and fibromyalgia on her Instagram page.
Read more real-life stories from people living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Leona
Leona struggled with her self-confidence and felt embarrassed about going out in public due to her skin. Now she is hoping to get her psoriasis under control with the help of a new dermatologist.
Maddy
Maddy initially felt 'fobbed off' by her doctor but found the courage to go back and has now started an effective treatment which has helped her psoriasis & boosted her self-esteem.
Mollie
Mollie shares her experiences of growing up with psoriasis and how, with the support of her family and friends, she's learned to accept her skin.
Tom
Tom shares his experiences of school and university life while managing his psoriasis and seeking an effective treatment regime.
Tuhin
Growing up Tuhin's classmates made comments about his scalp psoriasis causing him to feel embarrassed and become reserved. Years later he has regained his confidence and found ways to manage his skin.