Community Conversation => Transsexual talk => Post operative life => Topic started by: Catherine Sarah on January 24, 2014, 09:40:06 AM Return to Full Version

Title: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 24, 2014, 09:40:06 AM
Hello all you gorgeous people who have gotten this far. Congratulations.

Now, is there any of you who have been 'blessed' with this marvellous affliction? Specifically I'm talking about the scrotal skin graft that forms the vaginal vestibule. Mine comes and goes as it pleases. Nothing including the kitchen sink (dropped one on myself in 'that' place while remodelling the kitchen  ;D) will cure it of course. Fortunately it behaved itself until I was 6 weeks post. My surgeon nearly had a stroke when she saw what it could do. It did impede recovery slightly.

Has anyone had to deal with it while dilating? If so how did you cope? What topical preparation eased the traumatised skin and stopped it weeping?

There is nothing like a little extra pain on top of everything else to make us aware of just how lucky and blessed we are to have had the opportunity to have surgery is there. Thank you in anticipation.

Love
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Vicky on January 25, 2014, 11:31:43 PM
I have not had psoriasis as such in the scrotal area, but I have had centuries (it seems) of eczema on other body parts with the scaling and weeping.  OTC cortisone in petrolatum salve was helpful in many cases where the skin with the rash moved over joints or was subject to stretching.  Put the salve on before using any water based lubricants and you should get some relief. Check with your doctor, because for me that was first aid. 
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: JenSquid on January 26, 2014, 12:25:38 AM
My psoriasis is largely concentrated in my scalp, and it gets really itchy if I'm not diligent about washing it daily. Doing so is rough on my hair, but it's far better than the itchy, bloody, scaly mess that occurs if I don't. I know I also get psoriasis around my face (eyebrows, temples, ears), which isn't too comfortable either. I was doing some research on inverse psoriasis the other night, and I suspect that some nasty, persistent rashes I've had may have in fact been psoriasis as well. Lovely condition, isn't it?

As for scrotal tissue, years ago I had some bad itching and scaling down there, with very raw tissue beneath said scales. I didn't know what it was at the time, so I just kept the area clean and waited for it to go away. Wasn't fun, but that's what I did.
I'm still pre-everything, so I can't say much about psoriasis in one's vagina save for "eegh. That doesn't sound pleasant." You might want to talk to your dermatologist about that.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: BlonT on January 26, 2014, 09:16:41 AM
My psoriasis is largely concentrated on my feet ,and nose looks like a drunk :(
It come and go on hands and less on other parts.
I use a hormone salve and that helps,also to apply olive oil to stop the skin from drying helps to avoid the rash. And yes it come and go except on my feet.
Psoriasis down there looks a disaster to me ,the itching and dry skin will make it a menace and hard to cope with. I would inform with my doctor on using olive oil as lubricant, and how to clean up.

Hope it stay away  huggs  BlonT
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Maris on January 29, 2014, 01:30:11 AM
I never knew it could occur there!!!

I had it on my scalp and neck for a decade and suddenly this year it just stopped. I am scare of it returning but I really can understand how you may feel.
Stress is supposed to be a large factor but I assume you already know this.

very sorry to hear
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 29, 2014, 03:39:54 AM
Thanks Maris,

Yes, essentially it can happen anywhere. I've been down the stress road. I've been soooo laid back lately I've damn near fallen apart.  ;D  The latest I've heard, it's an auto immune response, to what I don't know. Nevertheless, we shall all move on regardless.

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 29, 2014, 08:32:44 AM
Quote from: Vicky on January 25, 2014, 11:31:43 PM
OTC cortisone in petrolatum salve was helpful in many cases where the skin with the rash moved over joints or was subject to stretching.  Put the salve on before using any water based lubricants and you should get some relief. Check with your doctor, because for me that was first aid.

Thanks Vicky. Yes the old cortisone trick invariably either does absolutely nothing, or sends it ballistic. I think it's time to go back to the dermatologist again and have another game of darts. I wonder what procedure will come up trumps this time. I must admit, I haven't tried miniature atomic explosions yet.

Quote from: JenSquid on January 26, 2014, 12:25:38 AM
....... Lovely condition, isn't it?

Absolutely Jen. Wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. ......... But then again, I could be tempted.  ;D

Do you use shampoo to wash your hair?  When I had it on my scalp, it was about 3-5 mm thick in places. I used neat lavender oil and it shifted it in sheets, and to date has never returned there. Yes, isn't the waiting game fun? I'd sooner watch the grass grow.

Quote from: BlonT on January 26, 2014, 09:16:41 AM
I use a hormone salve and that helps,also to apply olive oil to stop the skin from drying helps to avoid the rash.

Psoriasis down there looks a disaster to me ,the itching and dry skin will make it a menace and hard to cope with.
Hope it stay away  huggs  BlonT

What type of hormone cream do you use BlonT? Is it the oestrogen based one? If so, tried that one too. Guess what? I'm now in the market for something else  ;D

The funny part about this breakout is, with the dilation there is more oil down there than is in your car engine  :)  so at least the skin is not dry and itchy, it's just very red and traumatised from the constant abrasion. Eh! You can't win 'em all  ;D

Thank you every one. I appreciate you thoughts and comments. If the miniature atomic explosions work, I'll let you know so you too, can add that to your already extensive regimes of cure.  ;D :D ;D

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Calder Smith on January 29, 2014, 08:38:04 AM
I'm not MTF or post-op but I thought I'd share that I have Psoriasis under my arms. My mom has it more severe with it covering her arms, legs and other areas. I'm hoping it doesn't spread to other parts of my body. To stop the itching, I just use some lotion.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 29, 2014, 09:36:14 AM
Hi Mr Hockey,

Thank you for your comments. I hope for your sake it doesn't travel any where else for you. As it appears to be genetic in your case, you'll need to keep a close eye in it. Not that you can do much, except ease the discomfort.

If you are contemplating any surgery, make sure the surgeon is aware of your condition. Mine was and she was particularly watchful the first few weeks post to ensure there were no signs of necrosis.

Hope you're the one who finds a cure.

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Calder Smith on January 29, 2014, 10:06:10 AM
Quote from: Catherine Sarah on January 29, 2014, 09:36:14 AM
Hi Mr Hockey,

Thank you for your comments. I hope for our sake it doesn't travel any where else for you. As it appears to be genetic in your case, you'll need to keep a close eye in it. Not that you can do much, except ease the discomfort.

If you are contemplating any surgery, make sure the surgeon is aware of your condition. Mine was and she was particularly watchful the first few weeks post to ensure there were no signs of necrosis.

Hope you're the one ho finds a cure.

Huggs
Catherine

Thanks. :)
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: BlonT on January 30, 2014, 05:44:22 AM
Dear Catherine,
the hormone based salve is Triamcinolone acetonide 1mg/gr, it take time to work but remove it nicely, specially the tips off my fingers have patches,feet are totally covered accept the top. Its a cortisone to. The gallons of oil you use are a bit much :) But the trick is to get moisture in first ! Take a clyster then apply the oil.
To soften the hard patches it could be useful to use a salicylic creme (ask doctor).I know the itching can be unbearable :( But bad me needed to laugh ,as i picture the scratching.
Huggs BlonT
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Charley Bea(EmeraldP) on January 30, 2014, 06:18:01 AM
I have had eczema since I was born, currently it seems to mainly be on the base and sides of my feet making them look like I have been walking bare foot through a rock quarry all day and crack. Pretty much always have dry hands. I now seem to get a mild rash/dry patch(I assume that is psoriasis) on the back of my left thigh just beneath my left buttock, seem to be getting some now on my right buttock(sorry if TMI) and for the last year have had a similar rash looking patch on the top of my right foot which has never happened before but makes me very uncomfortable with the idea of wearing open footwear. Oh and I get dandruff also.

More reason to hate my body really.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 30, 2014, 08:32:47 AM
Hi Charley,

Sorry to hear of your out breaks. However there is never a reason to hate your body. It's the only one you'll have. With the recent out breaks own your buttocks, have you seen a dermatologist about it? You may get some relief from using a black light procedure.

I found soap to be a major contributor to my out breaks. Soap less shower gels work OK. Let us know how your coping.

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Charley Bea(EmeraldP) on January 30, 2014, 08:51:05 AM
I use to see one when I was a kid and the creams rarely did anything, I also spent two weeks in hospital wrapped up like a mummy on and off. Also the dermotologist suggested I go somewhere tropical as the weather is apparently good for it, went to queensland for two weeks(only time I have left the state) when I was 12 like the place and the weather was okay but I haaaaate the heat, also it only did a little bit for my skin.

I just want smooth normal skin is that too much to ask? Further adds to my feelings that I have been screwed over since birth.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 30, 2014, 09:00:04 AM
Hi Charley,

I know what you mean. It's such an unpredictable scourge. Have you noticed any skin softening/improvement since starting HT?

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Charley Bea(EmeraldP) on January 30, 2014, 09:22:35 AM
I thought I did when I was on Cyprostat but was taken off it due to higher bad cholesterol levels then my endo liked and then got put on Spiractin three months later coming up on three months on that and I do not really see any change and I swear my hair growth(body wise) has increased again aswell, not as bad as pre-HRT but enough for me to notice.

:(
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 30, 2014, 09:35:04 AM
Hi Charley,

Sounds like a visit to your Endo soon. When you do, remember to discuss this body hair issue. What type of E are you on, and what format is it? Pill, patch, gel, injection, implant.  (Remember no dosages)

Are you on progesterone as well?

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Charley Bea(EmeraldP) on January 30, 2014, 10:19:57 AM
Pill = Progynova, AA = Spiractin, AA for hair = Dutasteride.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 30, 2014, 10:28:25 AM
Thanks Charley,

On your next visit to the Endo, discuss alternative delivery of E to take the strain off your liver/kidneys from the Progynova.  Maybe patch or implant. Also discuss the advantages of progesterone.

You may find your skin condition could improve from both the improved liver condition and the progesterone.

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Charley Bea(EmeraldP) on January 30, 2014, 10:49:38 AM
I remember discussing with her injections(first appointment) and she told me two things they increase T levels(which I believe has been disproven) and that she wasn't sure they would be covered by the PBS and therefore maybe out of my budget, she has also moved me two appointments once every three months and from what I have read about injections that doesn't leave room for how often I would need to have them. As for patches and implants(I assume different to injections) I have been thinking about asking her when I see her in two weeks.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 30, 2014, 11:09:55 AM
Hi Charley,

Yes implant are different to injections. They are a small pellet (approx 2.5mm long) inserted under the subcutaneous layer of skin.

I know things are pretty sparse over in the west, but what you've said so far about your Endo, I think it may be getting close to seeking a second opinion. Does the Royal Perth Hosp. Have a sexual health unit attached to it? Or does any public Hosp for that matter have one? Maybe worth checking out.

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Charley Bea(EmeraldP) on January 30, 2014, 11:27:09 AM
Honestly I have no idea, I didn't even know there was endo here until I was referred to her. In fact I know bugger all about my options here, everything I do know comes from reading about it online. Kind of adds to my feeling isolated here.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 30, 2014, 11:41:46 AM
Hi Charley,

Well you know what to do now. The best way to overcome isolation is to jump on the phone and ring every major Hosp in the area.

As you have time on your side, start your own local TG organisation. Place a free add on TGR.net.au, there has to be a lot of TG folk in WA.

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Charley Bea(EmeraldP) on January 30, 2014, 11:59:15 AM
Problem is knowing of TG people in W.A is one thing but being able to meet them is another, I really crumble when it comes to that, I get agitated just going to my friends' house nevermind appointments and shopping. But to meet new people is just O_O
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 30, 2014, 12:01:17 PM
Sorry. I forgot.

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Charley Bea(EmeraldP) on January 30, 2014, 12:19:04 PM
That's okay, I am ashamed of it to be honest. Hell I ashamed of my existence.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Vicky on January 30, 2014, 01:22:22 PM
Quote from: BlonT on January 30, 2014, 05:44:22 AM
the hormone based salve is Triamcinolone acetonide 1mg/gr, i

This was one of the many I cycled through over many years, works for a bit but no longer than that.  Mine was script strength and somewhere I have a few tubes of it.   SIGH
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Jayne on January 30, 2014, 05:27:51 PM
As i've posted many times I suffer from eczema, right now it's so bad I have next to no skin on my arms, legs & chest. The pain is unbearable as is the depression, i've spent the last few days thinking about taking ALL of my anti-depressants to put an end to the pain & misery.

If a dog or cat was suffering like this then we wouldn't hesitate to have them put out of their misery but that level of compassion ends with animals, us humans have to endure the pain just so others don't have to deal with the trauma of losing a loved one, we're a selfish breed.

One ray of hope on the horizon is that my mum is picking me up tomorrow & taking me to A & E, she says she's not going to leave the place until they take me in for treatment.
If I do get a hospital bed then i'm going to push for them to put me back on imno suppressants, the list of side effects are long & serious, these tablets may take years off of my life but if things keep going on like this then if I don't get a hospital bed then I can't see me making it till next week.
I can't sleep due to the pain, the only time I manage to sleep is when i'm soaking in a bath & I often wake up coughing & spluttering where i've almost slipped under the water, it would be for the best if I didn't wake up next time I doze off.
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 30, 2014, 06:27:53 PM
OMG Jayne,

My thoughts and energy is with you. I sincerely hope you get admission immediately. You deserve it. I've had the occasional breakout on my chest and legs but never to that degree. A step aunt I had would be admitted to hospital and embalmed in oatmeal for her cure regime. This is such an insidious complaint.

Hope you can find relief.

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: JenSquid on January 30, 2014, 10:13:12 PM
Holy crap, Jayne!

That sounds awful. I hope you get some relief soon!
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Jayne on January 31, 2014, 02:06:58 AM
Thanks for the support, I soaked in a bath for 5hrs last night, i've been out of the bath for almost 2hrs & i'm aready running the next one.
I really can't go on like this, it's a living hell
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: Catherine Sarah on January 31, 2014, 07:17:48 AM
Hang in there Jayne,
Tomorrows your day in hospital.
My thoughts and energies re with you

Huggs
Catherine
Title: Re: Psoriasis - How did you cope?
Post by: BlonT on February 02, 2014, 08:35:32 AM
Jayne all the best hope you get better soon.
Hugs  BlonT

About the "If a dog or cat was suffering like this" part i agree, but doubt its about family.