Twelve-time Olympic medalist Dara Torres was used to her body being on display in a bathing suit, but about two decades ago, she discovered some itchy patches on her skin. Originally embarrassed by this visible condition, she went to a doctor and was diagnosed with psoriasis, a condition that affects 7.5 million people in the U.S.
Psoriasis is a common skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells and causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. The extra skin cells form scales and red patches that are itchy and sometimes painful, according to the Mayo Clinic. It is a chronic disease that is sporadic in its presence. Unfortunately, there is no cure, but treatment options are always evolving.
While this disease can be painful, the emotional toll can be devastating. A recent study from Psoriasis.org reported nearly nine out of 10 people living with psoriasis experienced self-consciousness or embarrassment about their condition.
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