I was diagnosed with palmar-plantar psoriasis at the age of 58. The condition makes it difficult for me to walk or move in any way and can be very distressing mentally and physically.
After finding out some information and receiving help from the Association Pour La Lutte Contre le Psoriasis - APLCP (The Association for the Battle Against Psoriasis) and finding a good dermatologist, I learned how to manage my condition by hydrating my skin regularly and by using special plasters for the soles of my feet. When I suffer from an attack, I have to be careful to avoid an infection.
Thanks to all of this, I have regained a certain quality of life, but I still cannot wear thin stockings or elegant shoes as they are not compatible with the plasters that I wear for comfort.
I'm the regional delegate of APLCP for Ile-de-France, and through my work I’ve noticed that there is an enormous lack of information on psoriasis both for psoriasis sufferers themselves and the general public. The public needs information because they make a lot of assumptions – many of them incorrect – like assuming that psoriasis is contagious.
Obviously, getting the right treatment is essential but other things that help include gaining a better understanding of the condition, being in contact and sharing experiences with other sufferers, and collecting information so that patients feel confident to speak with their dermatologist.
