Everyone with psoriasis has worried at some point about how others will react to the rashes and plaques on their skin. People may be grossed out or wonder if the condition is contagious. In this episode, we hear of some of these embarassing encounters, and learn how psoriasis patients cope with a lack of understanding from others. 

“You’ll hear stories about how a young person with psoriasis has completely stopped dating because they are afraid to experience physical intimacy with anyone because of their plaques,” says dermatologist Ahmad Shatil Amin, MD.

Among the highlights in this episode:

1:38 – Psoriasis patients often experience a sense of shame about their condition

2:35 – A common theme among those with psoriasis: Do anything you can to cover it up

3:10 – The stigma can sometimes lead to dark places

3:50 – When to seek out professional help

7:54 – A silver lining: finding shared support among others with psoriasis

8:16 – Learning to emerge from the shadows

10:05 – Being up front with your doctor about related conditions

Contact Our Host:

David Brandt: dbrandt@ghlf.org

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