Need Help in supporting loved one

[pgreen]

I'm wondering if any one has any tips for trying to support a loved one who has psoriasis. My boyfriend suffers with about 10% coverage. This has had a profound affect on him mentally (self esteem, confidence, etc.) I'm looking for any advice.

[bdiamond]

Hopefull this proves helpful.... Throughout my childhood I had psoriasis, and all doctors would do was subscribe more steroids. As I grew older the psoriasis cleared up but in my mid to late 20's I developed extremely painful outbursts of cysts on my face, and as I grew into my late 20's they became much more severe, and hugely painful. My girlfriend suggested that I might be allergic to something since the symptons seemed to come out after meals or in the morning.

I finally decided to go to an allergist. I was quickly diagnosed with being allergic to many types of molds (yeast in particular) as well as a few other things. The main thing I did was stop eating bread and all other products that have yeast. Since then I have not had any other symptons, everything has completely cleared up. I feel great, a huge improvement to my quality of life. I should also note that when I was young I must of had a box of twinkies a day. No wonder then, that as I ate all of this enriched flour full of yeast that I would have psoriasis outbreaks.

Basically, psoriasis is an auto immune disorder, so it would make sense that if I stuff myself with bread, wine, cookies and beer, and if I was allergic to yeast, my body would react. Since the skin is the "third kidney" my body is attempting to rid itself of toxins through these outbreaks.

I only wish that all of the skin doctors I visited over the years had suggested that I go to an allergist. Thinking about it - why the hell didn't they?? My advise to people with psoriasis, or parents or loved ones of people with psoriasis, it may not cure all of the symptons, but visit a qualified allergist, find out what it is in particular that causes the outbreaks. Really think hard about when the outbreaks occur and then try to cut certain things out of your diet, or even get special sheets on your bed that minimize dust mites or anything that your body might be allergic to. It may not be a cure for everything, but it may help reduce the severity of the attacks. And it is so easy and cheap to do, it is nuts not to at least check it out.

Bill

[mogleyboo]

My best advice is the power of touch. As a mom I notice a big change in my son when I, or anyone else, touches his psoriasis when he is really bad. His behavior at school changes for the worse when he starts to flare but if his teaches touches his psoriasis on a regular basis, his behavior improves and the bad attitude and "poor me" sydrome seems to get better as well.

He is probably used to people staring and saying comments that are trully out of line. Don't make a big deal of the psoriasis. Focus on the wonderful things he does and can do that have nothing to do with his P. It takes time but sooner or later he will realize that his time can be better spent focusing on more important matters than what his skin looks like. After all people will look at him because of his Psoriasis always, but he must learn to instead give them another reason to remember him that has nothing to do with his skin ie sense of humor that makes everyone laugh and smile etc.

[pgreen]

Bill, Thank you so much for your insight. It's good to hear from someone that has suffered similarly. I do believe yeast is part of his problem...if fact his sister, a nurse, has suggested this. I'll mention the allergist to him. This could be something he hasn't tried in the past.

Thanks again.

Patti

[pgreen]

Thanks for the advise. I do touch him as often as possible, not only the unaffected areas, but the plaques as well. I only hope and pray that he can begin to see that to people who truly love and care about him, what his skin looks like means nothing.

Thanks again for your response.

Patti

[PJ Leary]

Hi Pattie,

Touching your loved one in loving and intimate ways is all that is needed to convey your unconditional acceptance. Share yourself with him, and continue to celebrate all that he is. He'll figure it out.

My loving spouse of 13 years sweeps up the copious quantity of flakes litterring our bedroom and bathroom floors with understanding. He understands how itch can be MUCH worse than pain, how I might even long for pain instead. As the mother of his children, I feel loved, honored, and understood.

You can give this to the one you care for.

PJ Leary

[pgreen]

PJ...your response has touched my heart and soul. My heart breaks every time he flinches with itching or pain. I pray every day that a cure is found for him and for everyone that suffers with psoriasis. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me. Please accept my wishes for a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season.

Patti