Suilad-
Before you delve into this blurb be sure to check out the previous blog that touches on the beginning of my medical journey!
First off, let me celebrate by saying it was not scabies, ha! As torturous as that was, it was a bit cathartic deep-cleaning my entire room and wardrobe.
The actual cause of my condition was determined to be Guttate Psoriasis. This was diagnosed by a dermatologist my NP referred me to. I went to Upstate Derm and spent no more than 5 minutes in the examining room before I had my diagnosis.
Let me start by saying this was both incredibly relieving and frustrating all at the same time. I have suffered with this condition for 8 years with no proper diagnosis or treatment plan. Until that day. The doctor asked me one question: "Are you around kids a lot?" I couldn't help but laugh as I am indeed a pre-school teacher's assistant, 1:1 aid. So yeah, I'm around kids a lot.
He gave me the diagnosis of, as I said above, Guttate Psoriasis, which turns out to be an autoimmune response to streptococcus. When exposed to the virus, my body responds with a scarlet fever-like rash that develops into psoriasis.
The immediate course of action was to schedule UVB light therapy appointments that I would make for the next 10 weeks. The only other course of action was to go on lifetime injections, which as a holistic practitioner, I was very much against. The dermatologist was fantastic and was in full support of me staying on course for light therapy and my herbal diet that I went over with him. That will be touched on more later.
I was more relieved to have an answer than anything. 8 years of thinking I was the only one suffering this hell, when it turns out there are thousands who had stories like mine. As soon as I got the diagnosis, I was on the phone with my mom and then my herbalist to share the good news. They shared in the delight that was what seemed like a promising treatment plan.
My herbalist recommended an amazing juice cleanse that I cannot say enough good things about. For 3 weeks, I drank 32 ounces of juiced fruits and vegetables. Celery, which is an amazing body detox, replaces critical minerals while helping clean out the liver and digestive tract. Asparagus, which is high in vitamins and minerals, helps maintain a healthy immune function. Kale, high in iron, detoxifies the blood. Lemons, high in vitamin C, and most importantly, help disguise the flavor of the previous ingredients.
Being on this cleanse, I began to notice some immediate results. My skin was less red, less swollen, and far less itchy. It was shortly after I began my light therapy treatments, which honestly is just a medical-grade standing tanning booth with a few more steps to prepare than just lotion and protective eyewear. Needless to say, I had to tape over my nipples (as they could be prone to burning) and cover my body in mineral oil. Place protective goggles on and a protective head sheet. Yes, a head sheet. The aid comes in to start the machine, and a few minutes later, it's done.
After just two weeks of treatments with the juicing, I saw such improvement in my psoriasis that I was nearly speechless.
After months of not having answers. Of not having hope. I finally felt hope. After just 4 months of treatment I was nearly Psoriasis free! Which leads me to the reasoning behind this update. To give hope to everyone going through this experience. To let you know to not give up. Don't stop pursuing answers until you obtain the answers and healing you deserve. Just look for yourself, the possibilities to be had.
Love and Light-
Your Average Elf.
