introduction

[jeffreys]

Just wanted to introduce myself to this special community! Name is Jeff, I've been doing battle with psoriasis since graduating college in 1991. Being a star athlete in high school and college, psoriasis has completely changed me as a person. I lost friends and became moody.I have become more introverted and less active. I am currently in a career transition also and I can say that I am the first to tell you how much I understand the hopeless feelings that this problem brings with it. Over the last 10 yrs I've been through all treatments from metho(had a liver biopsy) to over the counter . The amount of money spent on treatment has been unbelievable. It comes and goes, for the veterans , I don't have to tell you that, and I appreciate any support but I also want to let everyone know that I am available for insight or support.
I recently had a terrible outbreak and started PUVA sessions again. I always respond well to PUVA and am going well. (Almost clear) However the arthritis was at its worst this winter and I still have problems in my fingers. I went on Celebrex and that is working ok but I might consider a rheumatologist.
Anyway, I am determined to keep fighting and stay active, I like to exercise and have started again. Its tough but we need to go on. Anyone who feels lonely or depressed, you are not alone. Please know that there are people who know how you feel and would be happy to help.
Thanks
Jeff.

[katinthehat]

DearJeff:
Hi! My name is Kathy and I have had psoriasis for 29 years. I think this message board is really neat. It is nice to know there are other people that have this horrible problem. The thing is, I never see anybody with it except myself!. I wish you well with your medication. I'm hoping that my clears soon because Spring is coming!. Any of the members, please feel free to e-mail me at chefmaster44@msn. com.

I would love to chat with anyone.

Thank you.

[timba]

Boy, am I glad you went on the message board.
Like you I kinda new at this stuff but learing fast. This is not a disease, this is
a horror. I am completely covered with
lesions, scabs, scales, flakes, pain and total redness. I went to my dermatologist
yesterday and he took a couple of biopsies
from my body. He is concerned. He started me
on cyclosporin several weeks ago but wishing
doesn't make it so, so I must have patience.
I am so low right now but desperately trying
to pick myself up. I had to give up the gym
last week, the sores on my feet and hands just got too severe. I have been working out
for a very long time. Giving this up to the
horror is so no fair. It seems we do spend a
great deal of money on medications, tests etc
but maybe I should seek out(hate to say this) a therapist. I do not feel I am under any unusal stress but maybe a little boast may be necessary now. You have had this for a long time, what gets you through you rough
spots. Again I am new comer to the message
board and maybe this message will not get to
you, but I want to put the words down. I could really use your insight and support.

[bettypat]

Hi I found Paxil to really help deal with having this crap, (can I call my skin crap?lol) I have it and at times I too get down, I have two tots and a 8 yr old and it really sucks not to be able to do certain things with them because it hurts too much.
The brighter side is that life still goes on...(maybe this is the paxil talking hehehe) I have 3 children and had 2 after finding out I had it. Diapering the last child was almost a nightmare, the pain associated with just being touched!!!...
Yup this disease stinks big time!!

[Angef]

Hi guys, I have been suffering from pustular psoriasis for 3+ years. I tried every cream and potion known to man, but until my dermatologist put me on Soriatane (metho) I had sores and blisters on my feet and hands that were almost disabling. It cleared me up completely! It has been almost 2 years sonce I went off Soriatane and just now I am starting to have a relapse. I am presently using Temovate and hopefully it will help. I am a nail technician and the appearance of my feet and hands are very important to me. I know all of you have experienced the embarresment of having to explain that you do not have fungus, athletes foot, etc. Lets all pray for a cure, but keep supporting one another. God Bless!!

[jeffreys]

Hi
I'm sorry, I took so long. I haven't been on the message board for awhile. So its pretty bad huh. Listen hang in there. IT WILL GET BETTER. I've had this @!#$ for a long time. Ironically I've been on everything except cyclosporin. About 3 months ago I had an outbreak and was covered with psoriasis. My choices were either cyclosporin or puva. I went with puva because I had sucess with it in the past. I am completely clear right now. I have a little arthritis in my fingers. Don't ever stop fighting my friend. I'm back in the gym working out and plan on doing a biathalon at the end of March. THis disease is an enormous emotional strain but you will get through it.
I've heard very good things about cyclosporin. I hope you've seen some improvement. Email me or post messages anytime and I will help. There were times in my life when I felt hopeless but believe me you will become stronger from this. I've tried everything but was so self conscious. I know its hard but try to smile and go on enjoying the things you like. In time, you will get back in the gym.
And on the brighter side, there are some more effective medications on the horizon.

Jeff