Support for Psoriasis
11:46am Monday 10th December 2007 in News By Gazette Reporter
Salisbury District Hospital staff, patients and carers have started a local support group aimed at providing additional help for people with psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a recurrent skin condition that affects around 2% of the population. It can cause irritable and painful red patches on any part of the body, leading to long term discomfort, poor self-image and psychological distress.
It can affect people at any age and can be triggered by infection, medication or stress.
John Elphinstone, support group leader who has psoriasis said: Salisbury District Hospital has a well equipped and forward thinking Dermatology Treatment Centre and, after GP referral, patients can enjoy a wide variety of specialist treatments and staff support which can be very effective in providing relief from the condition.
Some people, wrongly, think that people with psoriasis are dirty or infectious. Body image is also a problem. Because of this people with psoriasis often go to great lengths to hide the condition, which in some cases, can lead to social isolation and psychological problems.î A regular support group could give new and existing patients the opportunity to share experiences and help each other in boosting confidence and providing first-hand advice. The group could also give the public a better understanding of psoriasis in terms of the patients feelings and the fact that it is a condition that is not infectious.
If anyone would like more information about the support group they can contact Diane Crook at Salisbury District Hospital on 01722 336262. Extension 4056.
