Asking the right questions. Finding the right answers. Talking GPP with your doctor
The content presented on this website contains suggestions to help you manage your GPP.
Please discuss with your doctor what is best for you.
Managing your generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP)
Find a dermatologist experienced with generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) who can help you manage your condition
Some dermatologists are experts in generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) and other rare skin conditions. These dermatologists can help diagnose GPP and help you manage your symptoms.
Get support
Talking openly with your dermatologist
Be clear about symptoms and their impact
Talk about all your symptoms with your dermatologist — the ones you can see and the ones you can't. This can help them to understand the entirety of your condition. Start by explaining how generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is impacting your life and what symptoms are causing the most impact.
During your visit, consider talking about:
How GPP impacts your life (for example, work, daily activities, hygiene, relationships and social interactions)
Symptoms you are experiencing, including the ones that bother you the most (for example, tiredness and fever) and emotional symptoms (for example, depression and anxiety)
How your good days compare to your bad
What life is like living with GPP
Things you can no longer do that are important to you
What you can do to take a proactive role in your health
Partner with your dermatologist on treatment goals
Bring up your situation with your dermatologist and have a proactive discussion about generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) treatment options. Set yourself up for success:
Remember to be patient and continue with treatment. It may take you a while to find the most suitable option at first because of the nature of the condition. You may also need to take additional treatments for other conditions you may have.
How to have better discussions with your doctor
There can be a disconnect between people living with generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) and their doctors.
In a survey of 66 people living with GPP, many felt that their doctor did not understand the level of emotional, psychological or physical pain their GPP caused them.
Your expectations of treatment as a person living with GPP may be different to how your doctor may define treatment success. As the person living with GPP you may experience continued symptoms that affect your daily life or your mental health, that your doctor may not fully appreciate.
To help your doctor understand how GPP is affecting you, talk openly with them about how GPP impacts your life and your expectations for your care.
Try tracking your symptoms or keeping a journal where you note down the things you would like to discuss at the appointment, for example:
By keeping track of your habits, you can more easily describe to your doctor how your GPP has been affecting you. You can download a symptom tracker.
Another way to improve the discussions you have with your doctor is to take someone to your appointment. This could be a caregiver or anyone you trust and feel comfortable to take with you. They could provide valuable support and write down information that you might need later or be there to ask additional questions.
The better your doctor understands how GPP impacts you, the better they can ensure you receive the best care and treatment.
Doctor discussion guide
