But I'm just so so soooo tired of people asking me questions, like.. over and over and over again; and strangers looking at me with, let's say.. a hint of disgust. 😑
So here, let me say it straight..
If you've been wondering why I have red spots in almost every part of my body--some small, some a little bigger, it's all because I have PSORIASIS.
Disclaimer : I will not talk like a doctor here and explain it scientifically. I will just try to share my very own experiences and how I understand my condition in the simplest form possible.
But before I expound on this topic, I just want to reiterate 2 things..
1. PSORIASIS IS NOT CONTAGIOUS.
2. YES, IT HURTS SOOO BAD.
So before you bug us with questions and give us a look like we are the lepers during the time of Jesus, why not be a little considerate on how we actually feel?
Personally, I already learned how to deal with my condition in such a way that I don't stress myself anymore (with my appearance) everytime mine flares up. I try not to be too conscious anymore and just be "deadma" with people's comments, reactions, and stares.
You see, one major trigger of this Skin Disorder is STRESS, and if I get totally stressed with how I look whenever mine flares up, that will only delay my healing process.
But, is there anyone in this world who doesn't really get even a bit of stress? Even a newborn baby gets stressed, right?
So the least I can do is try to manage my stressors and deal with life with grace and passion, as much as possible. 😅
So when did I have PSORIASIS?
As far as I can remember, it was way back Senior Year in College when I first noticed the scaling in some parts of my scalp and few on my skin. My especialist said that mine might have developed due to my (history of) Asthma. I had Respiratory Asthma when I was a kid, and she said that most who outgrew Asthma, it eventually tends to manifest in other ways--one of which is Skin Asthma, or Psoriasis.
So, What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is characterized by skin cells that multiply up to 10 times faster than normal. As underlying cells reach the skin's surface and die, their sheer volume causes raised, red plaques covered with white scales. (as per WebMD.com)
As explained, red spots tend to develop on every part of the body where there is skin, that includes scalp and even in nails.
Also, any skin trauma, like a simple scratch or even a small wound , may lead to red spots.
Honestly, it took me a lot of courage to take and post these photos. But, I guess its about time that someone will finally talk about this Skin Disorder out in the open.
And it ain't easy man! The itchy ouchy feeling is really unbearable. Plus the meds, well.. tell me about it. They are really pricey! I am telling you.
HEALING PSORIASIS
Psoriasis is a Skin Disorder that cannot be cured--forever! You just have to 'maintain' and deal with the condition for the rest of your life. Just like Respiratory Asthma, or perhaps having a heart condition, Psoriasis is something that you have to live with whether you like it or not.
As for me, I have topicals when they are not that 'mad'. But I get to take orals whenever they are so badly flared up.
There are also other ways to cure or manage it, like Photo Theraphy where you will get to be exposed in UV light for a certain amount of time. It is also as good as sun bathing, which is also an option to heal our skin a little quicker.
But one good thing about psoriasis' red spots is they doesn't leave a scar. I usually get back to my same 'flawless' self when the spots get to subside until they totally heal.
So there. I have said my piece. Just a piece of advice, not everyone who has this skin disorder is as "Courageous" and has the same 'Positive' outlook like me. Can we be please not be so hard on them? It's Psoriasis, not Leprosy nor HIV. You don't know what they are going through and how terrible they are feeling because of this condition. Let's be a little sensitive, and human. I, thank you!
(I first posted this on my Facebook Account)
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