Do you experience anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder as a result of your life threatening allergies, anaphylaxis and past allergic reactions? It can be really debilitating trying to cope with something that could be catastrophic if you or someone else makes a mistake. Living on high alert is wearing, exhausting and can cause real anxiety problems. I know I'm not the … [Read more...]
A dermatologists review of The Shape of Skin, eczema poetry
Thank you to Dr Amanda Penny who works as Cosmetic Doctor at PHI Clinic in Twickenham, Harley St, Maidenhead, a non surgical cosmetic clinic, for this truly wonderful review. This is why I write. I recently came across the poem ‘You are golden’ by Ruth Holroyd of Whatallergy It really resonated with me. On a daily basis I see how my patients, with or without … [Read more...]
Self image, reflections, mirrors, facial eczema and TSW
I've been thinking about my dual fear of mirrors and obsession with my magnifying mirror for a while now. I absolutely hate seeing my reflection in mirrors and photos, after a lifetime of seeing eczema, red and sore skin in them. However I now have an obsession with over analysing the poor state of the skin on my face with a magnifying mirror to assess the damage daily. The two … [Read more...]
Why New Year’s Resolutions are bollox
And why I'm not writing any for 2022. It's that time of year when we reflect on what we have achieved and what we want to do in the coming year. We write lists of all the things we want to change for the better and I do love a list. But why is there all this focus on the new year being the time to finally become a New You! What if just being me is OK. So this year I am … [Read more...]
Eczema and TSW – pros and cons of face masks
If you have eczema, topical steroid withdrawal, asthma, or any other condition that may hinder the wearing of masks or make it uncomfortable, cause anxiety or exacerbate symptoms, here's some observations, tips and advice. If you really do not want to wear a face mask there are many reasons that you may be exempt. To download and print an exemption card visit the … [Read more...]