Within the last 2 months I seem the be getting what I think is psoriasis everywhere. I have a rheum appointment in 2 weeks.
In the meantime, I am tearing of my skin because it itches so much and am terrified this means I am getting sicker
Not necessarily sicker, just itchier. You need some good home remedies for psoriasis. Marietta has some of the best ideas and I am in the process of turning her wisdom into a post in the newbies section, but I just haven’t had time yet. Look at her page, and search her discussions. For now, do this:
Warm shower or bath. If bathing add a good unscented bath oil, like Neutrogena Rain-Bath. If showering, use this at the end of your shower and before you dry off. Then pat yourself dry. Use a good thick lotion. I have started using body butter (various brands) but you should definitely use something unscented because of your sensitive skin. I recommend Eucerin or Lubriderm or Aveeno as good products. So when you have patted yourself try use a generous helping of one of these really good lotions all over your skin. Then for spots where you have plaques use a oil-based cream. Again Eucerin makes a very thick ointment that you can use on these really dry patches.
If you have cracking or pealing hands and feet get a pair of cotton socks and cotton gloves, cover your hands with Eucerin before bed and put socks or gloves on the affected area and sleep with these overnight. You will find this really helps your skin feel better.
For temporary relief you can use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. The topical steroids are very effective for psoriasis treatment until you are started on a biologic or a DMARD.
Sound weird, but if you live in an area that is warm and humid right now spend some time outside. This can be really beneficial for your skin by getting your natural oils flowing. It will help with moisture and dryness and should help with the itching.
I understand your frustration and how miserable it can be to constantly feel like you’re scratching at your skin. Hopefully some of this will help you tide yourself over until your next appointment with the rheumatologist. If not try to get into see your general practitioner on a sick visit. They can definitely prescribe a topical steroid cream that you can use until your appointment with the rheumatologist next week. You may also want to go see a dermatologist if you’re having this many problems with your skin. I wish you the best of luck and hope you start to feel better soon.
thank you, I will go to the store tomorrow and find something(s) from your list.
Can you explain what biologic and DMARD are please? Is Humira that - I am taking that now and it has done wonders for pain but not sure how it is effecting the other issues
Hi, Robyn
On the home page of this site (as well as in the green banner above) is a “Newbies’ Guide” where the DMARDs and Biologics are exxplained. Humira is one of the biologics.
Hi Robyn!
Where are you itchy, if you don't mind me asking? Are there skin changes associated with the itchiness? There can be different causes for itching, so knowing the cause can be important. I hope you find relief soon!
My limbs,looks rash like on very dry skin
Hi Robyn, if the Humira is doing wonders for your joints (which for many means that it helps their psoriasis - but not all), and the rash doesn’t really look like psoriasis, maybe a trip to the derm as well as Rheumy is a good idea?
It definitely sounds like a visit to the dermatologist is in order, or even the GP. If the rash is continuing to bother you, it may not be psoriasis. It may be something else entirely.
Robyn said:
thank you, I will go to the store tomorrow and find something(s) from your list.
Can you explain what biologic and DMARD are please? Is Humira that - I am taking that now and it has done wonders for pain but not sure how it is effecting the other issues
I figure I'll see what she says since her office deals with all sorts of issues. The doctors work together since so many of these illnesses cross over.