Changing conditions
Dr Una Prendergast has had psoriasis for nearly seven years, and her son Mylo experiences severe eczema flare-ups. Here, she discusses what can cause the psoriasis flare-ups in her own skin and the eczema flare-ups in her son’s skin, and the various treatments and remedies that have helped them both.
When did you first notice psoriasis on your skin?
About six weeks after the birth of my eldest son I started to develop very dry elbows that soon turned into plaques. I was pregnant again very soon after and, during my second pregnancy, my skin pretty much stayed the same. After the birth of my second son, my skin got very bad, the plaques on my elbows got much bigger and I developed patches on my ankles and knees. I now also have started to develop patches on my lower back and hands.
Psoriasis is known to be hereditary, do other family members have the condition?
Yes, my sister has psoriasis too, and my father did years ago.
How has having psoriasis affected you mentally and physically?
I am lucky as my psoriasis is in areas that are easily covered but, in general, it means that I don’t wear short sleeves or skirts. Other than that, it doesn’t affect me too much as most of the time it isn’t painful or itchy.
Have you attended any healthcare professionals for advice?
I recently saw a dermatologist who specialises in psoriasis and will be undergoing phototherapy soon.
Are there lifestyle changes or products that help you to manage the condition?
I have recently changed my diet to an anti-inflammatory diet as I also have a thyroid condition, and this has helped somewhat. I have cut out gluten and grains, and I try to limit eggs, nuts and dairy. My skin has improved slightly in some areas.
I also take vitamin D supplements, and this also helps keep it somewhat under control.
An emollient such as RELIFE U-Life 20 moisturising body cream for very dry and rough skin has been good for keeping the affected areas moisturised and smooth.
Your son Mylo experiences eczema. When did you first notice the condition on his body?
He has had mild patchy eczema since he was a baby but in recent months, he seems to be getting worse flare ups.
How do you look after your son's skin on a daily basis?
We both use RELIFE Relizema lipid replenishing cleanser in the shower, which is much better for us than normal shower gels. After showers, I try to use emollient creams or RELIFE Relizema ultra hydrating lotion on him – although five-year-old boys have their own minds and don’t always want cream on them! If the flare is particularly bad, I will use a mild steroid cream.