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A long way to go, but I will find a new normal

I am 38 and in the summer of 2018 I was diagnosed with scalp psoriasis for the first time in my life. I have no family history of psoriasis or any other skin disorders. In December 2018 I started with a still painful ring finger and a small swelling to my right knee and the doctor prescribed steroids.

Two days later my knees, ankles, feet and hands swelled with fluid and where extremely painful. A trip to A&E and a visit from a rheumatologist followed by tests confirmed psoriatic arthritis.

Two weeks completely bed bound in hospital and the shock that this almost came on over night has been pretty scary. A couple of weeks on since my discharge from hospital and I am a little more mobile and just waiting to start methotrexate injections.

I feel annoyed that I was never warned about psoriatic arthritis at my dermatology appointments and left waiting for a follow up appointment where my psoriasis has now spread to my back, legs and arms.

The thoughts of long-term effects including work, mobility and mental health are a real worry and being young, you feel robbed and crave for the old you.

A long way to go but will find a new normal.

My advice, join an online support group to find other sufferers, advice and just to get it all out or find a night time club when you can’t sleep.

Submitted by 38-year-old female living in England.

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