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Quality of life in psoriasis patients

Wioleta Chodkowska

You can read this text in 2 min.

Quality of life in psoriasis patients

Pantherstock

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease with which up to 3% of the population struggles. Skin lesions have a major impact on self-esteem and interpersonal relationships. The problem is particularly evident in patients with extensive lesions in visible areas.

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Patients report many emotional reactions due to negative feelings about their skin. Some patients feel embarrassed by people looking at them or asking about their skin lesions. People with psoriasis are less well adjusted socially in situations where they are the centre of attention.

Most find it difficult to make new friends. Patients' discomfort is influenced by the location of the lesions, their duration and gender. Women endure the disease more severely. In some cases, skin symptoms can lead to various social problems, but adjustment usually occurs after a long period of illness. Patients regard their body as impure. They have the impression that their illness is considered contagious by others.

The conviction of having a blemish is common in patients. They feel ashamed and are more secretive and sensitive to the opinions of others. Many patients avoid swimming, sunbathing, playing sports, going to the hairdresser or using public transport. Half of the patients consider the disease to be the cause of their inhibited sex life.

The treatment of psoriasis is also associated with many problems. When using cignolin , patients have negative feelings about the colour, smell and consistency of the ointment. This has a significant impact on the feeling of being dirty. PUVA treatment with high hopes for complete resolution of symptoms has caused anger, disappointment and even depression in many patients. Retinoid treatment has also been met with considerable enthusiasm, which has, however, been cooled by a considerable number of side effects.

Patients often show fear of treatment precisely because of the possible adverse effects. Various methods of psychotherapy can have a great impact on the wellbeing of patients. These include the organisation of self-help groups or relaxation techniques. Improvements are noted with anti-anxiety and antidepressant treatment. Education of the public is also important.

If those around them are more aware of psoriasis then patients will find more support and acceptance.