Living With Psoriasis

Psoriasis has been shown to affect health-related quality of life to an extent similar to the effects of other chronic diseases such as depression, myocardial infarction, hypertension, congestive heart failure or type 2 diabetes. Depending on the severity and location of outbreaks, individuals may experience significant physical discomfort and some disability. Itching and pain can interfere with basic functions, such as self-care, walking, and sleep. Plaques on hands and feet can prevent individuals from working at certain occupations, playing some sports, and caring for family members or a home. Plaques on the scalp can be particularly embarrassing as flaky plaque in the hair can be mistaken for dandruff. Medical care can be costly and time-consuming and can interfere with an employment or school schedule.

Individuals with psoriasis may also feel self-conscious about their appearance and have a poor self-image that stems from fear of public rejection and psychosexual concerns. Psychological distress can lead to significant depression and social isolation.

In a 2008 National Psoriasis Foundation survey of 426 psoriasis sufferers, 71 percent reported that the disease was a significant problem in everyday life. More than half reported significant feelings of self-consciousness (63 percent) and embarrassment (58 percent). More than one-third said they avoided social activities and limited dating or intimate interactions.

Many tools exist to measure quality of life of patients with psoriasis and other dermatalogical disorders. Clinical research has indicated that individuals often experience a diminished quality of life. A 2009 study looked at the impact of psoriasis by using interviews with dermatologists and exploring patients viewpoint. It found that in cases of mild and severe psoriasis, itch contributed most to the diminished health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Further Reading

• What is Psoriasis?
• Psoriasis Types
• Psoriasis Clinical Classification
• Psoriasis Diagnosis
• Psoriasis Epidemiology
• Psoriasis Genetic Factors
• Psoriasis Cause
• Psoriasis Treatment
• Psoriasis Topical Treatment
• Psoriasis Phototherapy
• Psoriasis Photochemotherapy
• Psoriasis Systemic Treatment
• Psoriasis Alternative Therapy
• Psoriasis Historical Treatment
• Psoriasis Drug Development
• Psoriasis Prognosis

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