I am seventy one and fit and well, having had breast cancer eleven years ago and sepsis six years ago. Because of female pattern hair loss I had been cutting my hair at home but decided it was time to get a wig so a trip to the hairdressers was required. I then discovered that I had a thick plaque all over my head, which I started to try and remove - it was not uncomfortable at this stage, at least until I started to remove it A pharmacist advised Nizoral but by the time I started using it my head was so sore that my head would be crimson after shampooing and itching was keeping me awake at night. I also felt like I had a swimming cap on underneath my hair. Following coronavirus, I ended up with blocked ears thought to be due to facial congestion. Two ear suctions later, it transpired that my ears were blocked with skin debris from psoriasis. I then developed what I thought was a sweat rash under my breasts (never having had it before), a sore patch on my back (I thought it was from carrying a rucksack) and little sore patches around my tummy button and waistline. I also had problems with my underarms and elbow flexures, which I put down to hot weather. I went to see a dermatologist, who diagnosed scalp, flexural and plaque psoriasis, probably triggered by coronavirus. She did explain that it had likely been present for some time but exacerbated by the virus. She prescribed topical medications for all areas and emollients, liquid soaps and shampoo as well. I now feel much more comfortable with a new skin regime but I have lost a huge amount of hair on my head, made worse by me trying to clear the plaques. The other thing I have noticed is how less tired I have been since starting the topical treatments. I was shocked when the dermatologist told me about psoriasis and very tearful to start with. Compared to other people’s stories mine seems trivial, but may help someone older seeking out a diagnosis.
Submitted on 16th August 2023, by a 71-year-old female living in England.