Is There a Doctor in the House? (picture heavy; kinda gross)

[chickygirl2]

Here is a link to many skin conditions with pictures:
http://www.dermnet.com/

 

[FloridaChickenChick]

I've had psoriasis for over 20 years...doesn't look like any type of psoriasis I've ever seen (and I've done my share of research on this condition!)...except perhaps psoriatic arthritis. I thought auto-immune immediately when reading about it...only over the joints, etc. Psoriatic arthritis can have an effect on every joint of the hands and fingers...and it can come BEFORE "regular" psoriasis.

Good luck with a diagnosis and treatment. I hope you can get insurance sorted out...I went without (by choice) for many years and it's so much EASIER with insurance!

 

[Javamama]

Hi,
I cannot believe that I have found someone else who gets these bumps! Your pics and symptoms could have been of my fingers and elbows. I started getting them when I was about 17 - I'm 32 now- and my Dr. said it was some kind of generic Auto Immune reaction, put me on Prednisone and they cleared up. I haven't ever had them that bad again, but I do still get a few bumps. I don't know what sets it off, I'm thinking hormones, and I know hot, humid weather does too. It is so sporadic and I'm just used to it now. If it gets really bad - like to where I can't bend my fingers because the bumps are too swollen, then I get to the Dr. I am trying to find a homeopathic remedy for it, but no luck yet.

 

[mgibbzzz]

I have seen a lot of psoriasis over the years, worked in medical field since 95, and none looked like that. I would agree with an auto immune reaction. I would recommend a dermatologist. Tell them up front what you think may be going on, ask about making a payment arrangement, or cash payment may be even less costly. If you need to see a Dr., many hospitals have what they call urgent care or first care. It is like seeing a Dr. or the ER, but at a lower cost. They can do x-rays, stitches, fix fractures, etc. Good for those who do not have insurance.

Michelle

DMK Ranch

 

[chcknrs]

I get blisters on my feet. It's called hydrophilic something or the other, can't remember the last part, but the dermatologist said it's also called blistering ecxema. Over the counter corticosteroids don't work. You have to get a prescription for the more powerful steroid creams. Mine clears up within days of applying the Rx stuff. I also have rheumatoid arthritis, as well as another autoimmune disorder attacking my kidneys, so three so far. AI disorders are much more common in women, and so far steroids and other chemos are the only thing that works with the docs. Have you tried going to someone well versed in homeopathy or naturopathy? You might get better results.

 

[CityGirlintheCountry]

It seems a lot of the auto-immune issues pop up around your age. I was 21 when I was initially diagnosed with crohns (auto-immune affecting the gastrointestinal system).
The doctor told me that people either manifest when they are very young, around college age or in their retirement years. Dunno why.

You might see if there is a school of dermatology around you somewhere. The cost would be lower to you and you might have better luck at a school/research type medical facility.

Good luck. Your hands look like they really hurt!

 

[kinnip]

Getting my own health insurance was one of the most freeing experiences of my life. At 19, you're old enough and you won't have a high payment. If you have a job, they may provide insurance. If not, try Aetna. At 33 y.o., my payment is only $140/mo. It was less, but I use it a lot. My co-pay is $40 for a regular doc and $50 for a specialist. There's a $500 deductible on major medical. I rarely have to pay on my deductible. Some prescription coverage is included. All in all it's a great deal, much better than what I've previously purchased through employers. The peace of mind is worth every penny!!!

 

[FloridaChickenChick]

Quote:
I totally agree.

 

[cluckychick]

My son is currently experiencing a rash as well. His blisters are tiny and alot of them. He is 18 yrs old. This is what we learned. I took him to the doctor and was told it is eczema, he was given a steriodal pack (6,5,4,3,2,1) which did the trick for about 3 days after finishing. He was also given a steriodal cream that does not seem to be working very well. I currently have a call in to his doc. to get him another med. He is off at college (6 hrs away) and his health insurance is in the process of changing networks, which doesn't go into effect till Oct. 1st. Luckily his Doc. at home is still his primary till the switch and then he can go see a doc. down there or he can visit the Walk in clinic on campus for a $10 co-pay.

Good Luck in getting yours cleared up.

As a 19 yrs old female, you are eligible for Medicare insurance for 2 yrs. upon graduating high school. I would visit your Department of Social Service or give them a call.

 

[Jaimi]

Don't rule out arthritis-related issues based on age. My horse trainer's son is in 5th grade and has just been diagnosed with a form of childhood RA. He's had the symptoms for over 2 years...
Have you been using any kind of new lotion? A friend of mine recenty learned he was allergic to lanolin, which is in many natural-type lotions and creams.