National Post (National Edition)
Hiding No More: Alyssa’s Journey with Atopic Dermatitis
How one patient overcame constant skin pain to reclaim her life
Alyssa Hansen of Miramichi N.B. first noticed small, itchy patches of dry, red skin on her inner elbows in 2005. Gradually, the patches spread over her entire body — to the point that her father, a police officer, said she looked like a burn victim.
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Symptoms can include flaky, dry, itchy and red skin. Individuals with moderate to severe AD can experience lesions that ooze and bleed during flare-ups. After receiving her diagnosis at age 12, everyday tasks, like using scented soap or applying makeup, became impossible for Alyssa –– it was just too painful. “I'd just cry from the pain when I showered,” recalls Alyssa, who has lived with AD for most of her life. “It made me extremely depressed.”
“It's not uncommon for patients with atopic dermatitis to experience depression and anxiety,” says Dr. Vimal H. Prajapati, clinical associate professor at the University of Calgary as well as co-founder and co-director of the Skin Health & Wellness Centre and Dermatology Research Institute in Calgary, Alta. “The condition significantly impacts quality of life. Some people feel like they must shut themselves away.”
Alyssa isolated herself out of embarrassment and frustration over her skin. “The constant discomfort made me really irritable and hard to be around, even for my friends and family,” Alyssa recalls. At her worst, she was unable to sleep and too exhausted to interact with her loved ones. This kind of withdrawal is common among patients with AD, who often miss out on social activities, such as dating, and important life events.
Alyssa felt uncomfortable being seen in public. As a result, she couldn't bring herself to attend job interviews and soon found herself with a double major in criminology and psychology, yet no way of making a living.
But how did it all start? “The exact cause of atopic dermatitis is unknown, but researchers believe that genetic and environmental factors are involved,” Prajapati explains. Alyssa's AD flared up every year in the cold, dry winter air and also aligned with her seasonal pollen allergies. While weather is a trigger for many, AD breakouts can strike frequently and without warning, lasting anywhere from days to weeks. As Prajapati puts it, “The unpredictable, long-term nature of AD is a major challenge for patients.”
After living with AD for over a decade, Alyssa asked for a dermatologist referral. At her first dermatology appointment, Alyssa was told that her AD was very severe and she was put on a treatment. Within a few weeks, her skin was clear.
Two years later, Alyssa still follows the treatment plan her dermatologist first prescribed. She hasn't had a single flareup and feels much happier, enjoying simple pleasures like doing her makeup and buying scented personal care products.
What's more, Alyssa has the confidence and energy to spend more time with her friends and family. Soon after starting treatment, Alyssa entered into a relationship and landed her dream job in the Attorney General's office — she attributes both to her newfound inner strength. “I went from the lowest point in my life to feeling like things are finally how I've always wanted them to be,” shares Alyssa. “It's been life-changing.”
Up to 17 per cent of Canadians will suffer from atopic dermatitis. Many may feel overlooked and alone. And, although no cure exists presently, Prajapati believes we have a lot to be hopeful for: “There are so many therapies that relieve symptoms, which allows patients to live a normal life again. They just have to go and see a dermatologist.”
Alyssa urges other people with atopic dermatitis to get help right away. “One of the best decisions I ever made was to push
to get the help I needed,” she declares. “There is nothing to lose.”
If you think you have atopic dermatitis, talk to your doctor and obtain a referral to a dermatologist, or visit https://dermatology.ca/ for more information and support.