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Difficult discussions

Tongue tied

Whether it’s making small talk with a stranger or chatting to a boss, there are lots of conversations that can make us feel tongue tied. But if you don’t know how talk to your doctor about your psoriasis, it can make it harder to get the support you need to deal with your condition.

So what can you do if you can’t find the right words?

Planning ahead

The good news is that there are steps that you can take to start feeling more comfortable before you even set foot in your doctor’s office. Preparing for your consultation will help you feel more in control and informed, and make it easier to have a productive conversation.

“So from very early on I did everything I could to learn about psoriasis, I became an expert myself... So now I have a very good relationship with my medical professionals”

- Victoria, Dublin

It can also help to decide what you want from your discussion ‒ is it more information about your condition, new treatment options, or referral to a specialist?1 Whatever your goal is, thinking about it before your consultation will help you communicate your goal clearly to your doctor, so you can work together to achieve it.

Finding your voice

Remember that your health and wellbeing matter to you and your doctor, so don’t let self-consciousness stop you from getting what you need from your consultation.

  • It’s not just physical – as well as mentioning any physical symptoms, tell your doctor if your psoriasis is affecting how you feel or your day-to-day activities
  • Don’t wait for your doctor – if there is anything that you don’t understand, if your doctor’s instructions are unclear, or if you have any concerns, bring these up even if your doctor doesn’t ask. Chances are they will be able to answer any question you have
  • Set a date for your next appointment – psoriasis often requires ongoing treatment, so ask your doctor when you should come back for a follow-up appointment
  • Take an active role – psoriasis can vary over time, so keeping track of your psoriasis over time can give you and your doctor an insight into your condition and how well any treatments are working

Coming soon…the psoriasis support app! To help you keep track of your psoriasis symptoms and their impact on your life.

Psoriasis often varies from person-to-person and over time, so it may take a while to find a treatment that works for you. Because of this, managing psoriasis may require an ongoing conversation between you and your doctor.

You should feel comfortable telling your doctor about your condition and how you are feeling, and they should be able to provide you with the information and support you need.2

“The very first GP I attended, I was with him for four years, he treated my psoriasis without ever once looking at my skin...And then I changed dermatologist last year, and I have to say, a fantastic dermatologist, so I’m now evangelical about finding the right person who suits you”

- Helen, Dublin

References

  1. Poot F. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2009; 23(11): 1233-1239.
  2. Uhlenhake EE et al. J Dermatolog Treat 2010; 21(1): 6-12.
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