Having PUVA treatment

My hospital dermatology nurse stopped my PUVA initially after 14 sessions and then a new doctor sent me back again but a different nurse stopped it again after 4 more sessions, I therefore didn't complete the last 12 sessions. I too couldn't stand the itching and had little sleep over the course, it was always far worse at night. The reason mine was stopped was not just the itching (I believe I was allergic to the psoralen soak beforehand) but also because it burnt areas of my feet and in the end made the psoriasis worse - I have palmoplantar psoriasis. You have to decide if the treatment is improving your condition and if you wish to continue with it. I have since read on a different psoriasis website that the itching might be slightly alleviated if you use a 50/50 mix of glycerin and witch hazel (alcohol free). You could use a moisturiser over the top if desired or wipe off the excess glycerin after 15 minutes. Some people recommend organic cold-pressed coconut oil to alleviate itching and help with the flakes. I hope that your situation improves, please keep us posted if you need other suggestions or advice or to scream!  

Hi

i am back at the hospital tomorrow, I don't think I will continue with the treatment as I can't stand the constant itching and it looks like  my hands have burn marks I am suffering from the same condition as you. I am going to try the glycerine and witch hazel and will let you know how I get on. Thank you for the advice. 

Jean

Forgot to say that when the doctor sent me back she also insisted that I use diprosalyic acid steroid to help clear the remaining plaque at the same time as the Puva. It was the worst thing that could have happened to me. The steroid which is very potent burnt my skin further started to peel and for the first time in my life I now have pustular palmaplantar, as opposed to just Palma plantar,all over my feet and it has also started on my hands which were clear. It is now progressing to other areas as well. I rue the day I ever had this as they are now looking at immunosuppressants which might have awful side effects. There is a good site you can go to but if I give you the name of this this reply will be blocked . If you would like to know it please let me know and I will try spelling it without giving the diect link. 

Hi i would like to know other sites  I await in eagerness

jean

Hi

i went back to the hospital and by pure chance the doctor came through to the treatment room, I managed to see him and explained about  the constant itching I was having after the treatment ( PUVA)  and told him I am not continuing with it, he agreed so back to the creams etc for a month got to have a blood test as well

 

Hi - I am sure you will feel relieved but it will probably take a few days for the itch to go, it certainly did with me, - make sure you continue to use moisturisers though. With regard to the places you can access information try the national psoriasis foundation they have an inspire forum with thousands of members world wide and an enormous amount of data which is incredibly useful. In particular articles by Dakota and Flintchick which make interesting reading. Brian also posts about glycerin and witch hazel. It will however take you a considerable amount of research and look at the different threads. Overall it is a very positive place to gain empathy, ideas and potential remedies. I hope that you also find this beneficial . Please keep me updated with your progress - I wish you success.