I Can't Live a Normal Life with Atopic Dermatitis

By maryannbrooks

Last Updated:

1 min read

I've had atopic dermatitis since 1992, and it's most definitely been a journey...

Journey of a lifetime

It's changed my overall life...the scars...the not being able to live a normal life has taken its toll...anxiety...depression and insomnia...

I've applied for my disability because I am unable to basically function from all the damage it's caused. I just recently got out the hospital, 4 days of nothing but meds and pain...

Hardly recognizing myself

It is hard to look in the mirror and hardly recognize yourself....mine has always hit my neck and arms....this time it hit my face and breast area and boy did it do damage!

What areas of your body are affected by eczema?

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bc21 Member

An awful condition which can have impacts far greater than many people realise. I do hope you can find some relief. My eczema is particularly bad on my face and neck. Even when it is not flared up and looking really bad, it is still painful and itchy. I empathise with you. It can be difficult to even focus on anything due to the itch and pain to the point of being disabling. Take care and I hope there will be some relief and some treatments on the horizon. P.S. I just realised this is an old thread but it popped up in the latest newsletter hence the new comment. I hope you have found some relief and improvements since then.
1. Cora Lyn Sears Member
 
 <inline-mention username="bc21" user-id="4199948"/> , I’m so sorry you’re having such a difficult time with your face and neck. I have it on my face, but thankfully not on my neck. It must feel terrible just turning you head! Like trying to smile when the skin feels as if it will crack. Sending healing thoughts your way, Cora Lyn, <a href='https://atopicdermatitis.net' target='_blank'>AtopicDermatitis.net</a> Team Member
Peter Bunting Member

Oh <inline-mention user-id="2027661" username="maryannbrooks"/> , I really feel for you. It’s so so debilitating this disease isn’t it. Thanks for sharing and I hope you’re doing well.
Linette Roungchun Member

<inline-mention user-id="2027661" username="maryannbrooks"/> how is your condition now? I totally understand- actually, I’m in the process of applying for Disability as well. This illness is no joke. I go bonkers when someone says “it’s just a rash” haha! As soon as I hear that from someone’s mouth- I educate!! Even though these symptoms are literally the worst, I’m forcing myself to advocate as much as possible, so that our stories are heard. Because I think that us always telling people that we are “fine” is actually doing our community a disservice. So I just want to say thank you for speaking up and telling the world that you are NOT fine!! Hoping you are itching less today, - Linette (AtopicDermatitis.net Moderator)