Living with Psoriasis: From Rage to Acceptance

The transition from rage to acceptance is a profound one, particularly for those living with chronic conditions. For Nuria Gato, a 28-year-old laboratory technician, this journey has defined much of her life. Her story offers a window into the emotional and social realities of managing psoriasis from a young age.

Now looking back with clarity, she recalls how her school years were marked by a sense of otherness. Despite being the cherished only child of devoted parents, the external world often treated her as something to be feared or avoided.

During her formative years in school and high school, Nuria Gato felt she was treated like a "bicho raro," or a strange creature. This feeling was not born from a lack of family love, but from the reactions of her peers. The visible nature of her condition made social integration difficult.

The physical manifestations of the disease created barriers in everyday interactions. As a child, lesions appeared on the palms of her hands, leading classmates to avoid touching her entirely. Later, during adolescence, the condition evolved, with psoriasis scales suddenly beginning to populate her forehead.

• Peers avoided physical contact due to hand lesions.
• She felt the weight of judgmental stares during her teenage years.
• The condition's appearance changed significantly from childhood to adolescence.

The psychological impact of living with a chronic, visible condition was immense. In her own words, Nuria Gato describes a time filled with deep frustration and sorrow. The internal struggle was often more painful than the physical symptoms.

"Before me maldecía todo el tiempo por haber nacido así. Cuando hablaba de la psoriasis se me hacía un nudo en la garganta o lloraba."

This quote captures the depth of her early suffering. She spent years cursing her own existence, feeling trapped by a condition she did not choose. The mere mention of the word "psoriasis" was enough to cause a physical knot in her throat or bring her to tears.

However, time has brought perspective. Now, her voice carries the calm of someone who has navigated the storm. She has successfully moved through the stages of anger and grief to arrive at a place of peace.

Nuria Gato's experience is not unique. She is part of a significant demographic: the one-third of patients diagnosed with psoriasis before turning 18. Her case underscores a critical issue in pediatric dermatology—the frequency of delayed diagnosis.

Identifying the condition early in children and adolescents is essential for managing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease. Yet, as in many similar cases, the path to a definitive diagnosis for Nuria was not immediate. This delay can prolong the period of social isolation and emotional distress that young patients endure.

Key challenges in early identification include:

• Distinguishing psoriasis from other common skin conditions.
• Recognizing subtle early symptoms in children.
• Addressing the psychological impact of visible symptoms in school settings.

Today, Nuria Gato works as a laboratory technician, a profession that requires precision and focus. Her ability to manage her condition while pursuing a career demonstrates the possibility of a full life despite the challenges of psoriasis.

The condition is characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in scaling, inflammation, and plaques. For patients like Nuria, management involves navigating both the medical and social dimensions of the disease. Her journey from self-cursing to sosiego (calm) serves as a testament to resilience.

Her story highlights the importance of support systems and medical guidance. While the condition remains a daily reality, the emotional weight has shifted from one of burden to one of acceptance.

The story of Nuria Gato illustrates the complex interplay between physical health and emotional well-being. Her journey from the isolation of childhood to the calm of adulthood offers valuable insights into living with a chronic condition.

For families and individuals facing similar diagnoses, her experience underscores that while the path is challenging, acceptance is possible. Early identification remains crucial, as does addressing the emotional toll that visible conditions can take on young people.

Ultimately, her narrative is one of strength. It proves that while psoriasis may shape one's experiences, it does not have to define one's future.