Guest guest Posted March 16, 2011 Report Share Posted March 16, 2011 I have had psoriatic arthritis symptoms and effects for well over a decade. Sometimes, head to toe. 20 nails were " pitted " at it's worse. So bad, i was living off of painkillers. It is indeed painful. Skin cracking & peeling, stiff & painful joints, I was walking w/ a cane, mostly homebound but my immune system was so low..i had 9 t cells and my viral load was in the millions. I have tried almost everything. here are some things that have been helpful for me: UV Light therapy avail at dermo's offices. " Light box " you can purchase a portable home unit, but I never have. I took sun in tanning beds that are best for psoriasis. Take sun for free naked (if needed) The sun is good therapy. creams, lotions, potions. They help sometimes but I have to remember there is no " cure " . Go to the beach. Salt water is good for healing. Bring the beach to you. Epsom salt soaks. I moved to FL so i could be in the sun and get in the ocean but that was a very drastic decision. I'm always seemed less stressed out in FL. Get therapy w/ your anti depressant. Almost always a better success rate as a pair. I have been in treatment for anxiety & depression for over 20 yrs. Try hiv support group round out your treatment. Mind / body connection is important. The body wants to heal. Talk to your primary hiv doc about this too but a good dermatologist may give you cortisone shots for your worst areas. If you are becoming homebound...sleep it off w/ atarax, an old fashioned anti itch drug. find out what your triggers are for flare ups. Alcohol can flare up psoriasis. Stress of course. Wear the clothing that feels best for you, try using free and clear laundry detergent. avoid dry cleaning clothes on you skin, chemicals like windex, 409 can trigger my psoriasis. I seem to be chemically sensitive. Try a box of disposible exam gloves for cleaning. I have had break outs on my hands from comet! or use lotions. also, use the most gentle soaps, shampoo's only where & when u need it. find a moisturizer that works for u. Generic cetaphil is soothing too. you can even leave a lite film on. Pump bottle of suave coco butter lotion...and the coolest thing that to me recently...was Gun Oil ! Be gentle w/ yourself. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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