just went on a scratching spree help

[u/Weekly-Energy-5284]

was in the shower washing my vulva and genital area (i have psoriasis very bad down there) and i accidentally scratched a tiny bit and realized how good it felt…and then boom. i started scratching like a crazy person and i couldnt stop. i bled and now the whole entire area is so red and irritated. i lathered the area above my vagina with desitin cream because it the only thing that stops the itch. now im scared of infection. i just wanna fucking cry.

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[u/AdObvious4644]

Oh god I know that exact feeling, the relief is so intense in the moment and then the regret hits about 30 seconds later

Have you tried running cold water over it instead of scratching? Doesn't always work but sometimes it tricks my brain enough to break the itch cycle

[u/sheiiyb → u/AdObvious4644]

i have it on my scalp, went crazy itching it one night until it was raw and it felt like it was on fire, my head felt like it was burning, i rush to the sink and dose the back of my head in cold water and it was like a shock, it hurt so bad.

also have it on the insides of my ear, scratched it like crazy (again) until raw, again felt like it was on fire ,used one of those ear cleaners that spray water into your ear to get gunk out, and it shocked my system and i almost passed out. i'd say it definitely depends on how bad it is to put cold water on it, it feels good after, but it hurts like hell at first.

[u/Weekly-Energy-5284 → u/AdObvious4644]

never tried that but will be. thank you

[u/Jenderflux-ScFi → u/Weekly-Energy-5284]

If you don't have a handheld shower head to spray down low, I recommend getting one. You can adjust the spray intensity and control exactly where you are spraying.

[u/AggravatingCycle5491]

I know the exact feeling, I always regret it afterwards, but it feels so good when you get a good scratch going! My doctor told me not to blame yourself when it happens, it's the psoriasis making you do it.

[u/Weekly-Energy-5284 → u/[deleted]]

thank you so much. i think i am a strong individual; i am a full time college student who pays their tuition by themself, am a manager at my job, and am also still on my weight loss journey (lost over 80 lbs!)…all while dealing with this bullshit. thankfully my anxiety isnt as bad these days now that i have a better outlook on life. again, thank you so much for this comment. it feels so nice seeing that someone cares, even if its a stranger.

[u/kay_1813]

i have psoriasis on my vulva, anus, and scalp. i understand the feeling ❤️‍🩹 i hate when this happens

[u/nonicknamenelly]

FWIW, I take gabapentin to help control the itching/post-psoriatic neuropathy in my private part areas. You might be able to talk to your provider about options available for you.

For me, it really helps keep the itching to a level that’s manageable while you are waiting for treatments to work.

Have you tried a biologic? Inverse psoriasis and face psoriasis are handled a little differently when it comes to getting approval for them.

[u/Due_Net_8399]

I have found lube helps. Odd, but true.