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Coping and support
By Mayo Clinic staffCoping with psoriasis can be a challenge, especially if the disease covers large areas of your body or is in places readily seen by other people, such as your face or hands. The ongoing, persistent nature of the disease and the treatment challenges only add to the burden.
Here are some ways to help you cope and to feel more in control:
- Get educated. Find out as much as you can about the disease and research your treatment options. Understand possible triggers of the disease, so you can better prevent flare-ups. Educate those around you — including family and friends — so they can recognize, acknowledge and support your efforts in dealing with the disease.
- Follow your doctor's recommendations. If your doctor recommends certain treatments and lifestyle changes, be sure to follow them. Ask questions if anything is unclear.
- Find a support group. Consider joining a support group with other members who have the disease and know what you're going through. You may find comfort in sharing your experience and struggles and meeting people who face similar challenges. Ask your doctor for information on psoriasis support groups in your area or online.
- Use cover-ups when you feel it necessary. On those days when you feel particularly self-conscious, cover the psoriasis with clothing or use cosmetic cover-up products, such as body makeup or a concealer. These products can mask redness and psoriasis plaques. They can irritate the skin, however, and shouldn't be used on open sores, cuts or unhealed lesions.
References
- Feldman SR, et al. Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of psoriasis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 22, 2010.
- Questions and answers about psoriasis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.nih.gov/hi/topics/psoriasis/psoriasis.htm. Accessed Nov. 26, 2010.
- Burden AD, et al. Diagnosis and management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in adults: Summary of SIGN guidance. BMJ. 2010;341:987.
- Feldman SR, et al. Treatment of psoriasis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 30, 2010.
- Light therapy. National Psoriasis Foundation. http://www.psoriasis.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=430. Accessed Nov. 30, 2010.
- Living well: Healthy eating. National Psoriasis Foundation. www.psoriasis.org/netcommunity/learn_eating. Accessed Nov. 30, 2010.
- Aloe. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Nov. 30, 2010.
- Fish oil. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Nov. 30, 2010.
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