Thick Skin: Hope For Relief
Hands up if you have ever had a bad hair day or a blemish keep you from feeling your best? Millions of Canadians struggle each day as they wake with dermatological conditions not only affecting their skin, hair and/or nails but their inner selves.
Internal struggles
Many living with unhealthy skin become self-conscious, embarrassed and depressed to the point of isolation. These are all common day-today feelings of a person suffering from a chronic dermatological con- dition. These people often miss work, avoid social encounters, lose their confidence and sometimes, even their jobs.
Of the 3000 known dermatological conditions, many do not have a cure. Those diagnosed with a life-threatening skin condition such as skin cancer fear death, others may feel they are living with a life sentence tied to a chronic skin condition such as rosacea, acne, psoriasis or eczema. However, preventative measures and treatments can offer pain relief and relieve symptoms with medications or other treatments such as phototherapy, laser, cryotherapy and other treatments. As well, due to increased health research and clinical trial efforts, future treatments are on the horizon.
If you have unhealthy skin
You are your own best health advocate. Do your homework and ask questions. If something does not seem right, do not hesitate to share your concerns with your physician. Ask your family physician to see a dermatologist if you feel your condition has become chronic. As well, ask about any lifestyle changes you can make to perhaps reduce symptoms. Stephanie, a psoriasis patient, shares her strategy: “I regularly seek expert advice from a dermatologist, a naturopath or a nutrition- ist in order to keep my psoriasis in check. I eat a healthy diet void of caffeine, sugar and processed foods. As well, I participate in stress-relieving activities, such as taking baths, engaging in regular exercise and of course, sharing lots of laughs. Also, I strongly urge skin patients to never stop being curious about their skin condition.”
Connecting with others, being open with your medical team and staying informed about your condition are key to moving forward in your journey towards better skin health.