The Silent Struggle: Living with Psoriasis

4 min read

Psoriasis: The Battle of Awareness, Lifestyle, and Insurance

Psoriasis, a skin condition that often goes unnoticed, has been a silent struggle for many individuals. This year’s World Psoriasis Day highlighted the theme ‘Access for all’, shedding light on the lack of awareness, lifestyle choices, and insurance coverage that psoriasis patients contend with. Dermatologists have voiced their concerns about the stigma and lack of understanding surrounding this autoimmune disease, which has even led some individuals to consider drastic measures.

Psoriasis, often characterized by rashes on the face, elbows, and knees, can later spread across the skin, causing discomfort and distress. The condition comes in various forms, with psoriasis vulgaris being the most common. However, severe manifestations can leave patients bedridden or with gnarled fingers, impacting their daily lives significantly. V. Harish, a 56-year-old patient, shared his experience of being diagnosed with arthritic psoriasis 15 years ago, a condition that also affected his father. Stress, lifestyle, and food habits were identified as significant triggers, with Mr. Harish recalling a relapse triggered by a stressful financial situation post-retirement.

The emotional toll of psoriasis extends beyond physical symptoms, as 32-year-old G. Arun Kumar revealed. He expressed the challenges of social interaction, with people avoiding him and assuming he had skin cancer due to the visible red patches on his face and hands. The lack of understanding and empathy from others has added to the burden of managing this condition.

Financially, the cost of medication poses a significant challenge for many patients. Mr. Harish highlighted the exorbitant expenses, with injections costing ₹35,000 every fortnight. While he was fortunate to have insurance coverage, the reality of becoming resistant to medications over time and experiencing relapses remains a concern. This financial strain, coupled with the social stigma, paints a grim picture of the daily struggles faced by psoriasis patients.

Despite the hurdles, there are stories of resilience and adaptation. Arun Kumar found relief through lifestyle changes, particularly by preparing his own meals at home. This shift allowed him to have better control over his condition, emphasizing the impact of diet and stress on the disease. The role of lifestyle choices in managing psoriasis was further emphasized by Muralidhar Rajagopalan, a senior consultant dermatologist at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai. He highlighted the influence of exercise, obesity, alcohol, and smoking on the severity of psoriasis, urging individuals to make conscious lifestyle changes.

Dr. Muralidhar also shed light on the physiological aspects of psoriasis, linking it to inflammation and its impact on the body. The connection between psoriasis and cardiovascular events was highlighted, underscoring the need for holistic management and awareness of the associated health risks. However, the lack of comprehensive insurance coverage in India remains a significant barrier, with severe psoriasis often being overlooked as a cosmetic issue rather than a medical condition.

The complexity of psoriasis was further explained by M. Girish, a former head of Skin and STD in Bengaluru, who highlighted the accelerated cycle of dead cell replacement in psoriatic patients. This insight into the physiological changes in the skin offered a deeper understanding of the condition’s impact on the body. Sonia Feroz, a director and consultant dermatologist, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the intricate relationship between immunity, triggers, and the development of psoriasis.

In conclusion, the battle against psoriasis extends beyond the visible symptoms, delving into the realms of social stigma, financial strain, and physiological complexities. The need for increased awareness, empathetic understanding, and comprehensive insurance coverage is crucial in supporting individuals affected by psoriasis. As we reflect on World Psoriasis Day, let us strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those contending with this often misunderstood condition.

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