Moments of Clarity: Finding Relief from Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) has been a part of Emily M.'s life for as long as she can remember. The most common form of eczema, AD is a chronic condition that can cause persistent itch, inflammation, redness and dry or scaly patches.

"My symptoms started during childhood, and over the years, they were something I felt I had to learn to live with. I tried everything to find relief, but nothing really worked."

For Emily, her AD symptoms became a constant battle, affecting her work and home life. As a mother of three, and as an ultrasound technician, frequent handwashing while caring for her kids and in between patients aggravated her condition. Excessive handwashing and other factors like stress, weather or allergens, can affect the skin’s barrier and trigger AD symptoms.

Emily's story, and that of other patients with AD, are highlighted as part of Incyte's Moments of Clarity program, an educational initiative sharing real patient stories and experiences to encourage people with mild-to-moderate eczema to find relief from their symptoms by speaking to a healthcare provider.

The Impact of Emily’s AD Symptoms
Each person’s experience with AD is unique and is marked by defining moments – from the first itch to realizing the need for relief from symptoms.

As Emily got older, her condition became chronic, leading to constant itching that would disrupt her sleep and daily life. She noticed her AD symptoms worsened after having kids, and over time, she realized her condition was impacting her family's special moments. When her daughter, Sami, scored her first soccer goal, celebratory high-fives led to the children asking Emily what was wrong with her hand. Emily took a knee and explained. She recalls, "I really just wanted to celebrate Sami and instead it took the whole special moment away from her."

Eventually, Emily's daughter refused to hold her hand because of her AD flare-ups, which left Emily devastated and determined to find relief. She sought help from a healthcare provider and found a treatment that worked for her.

 

Today, Emily is proud to share her story in hopes of encouraging others to take the next step in managing their symptoms.

"Prior to seeking the advice of a doctor, I minimized my symptoms and thought I just had to live with the daily discomfort," she shares. "That's why I partnered with Incyte on the Moments of Clarity program. I hope to empower others to find relief from their symptoms."

Incyte's Support for People Living with AD
Incyte is committed to supporting people living with chronic conditions, like AD. Emily and others who share their stories through Moments of Clarity hope that it will serve as a reminder to people with AD that they don't have to suffer.

"I didn't believe anything would work for me because I've had these symptoms forever," Emily explains: "But by speaking to my healthcare provider, I was able to find relief. Today, my daughter finally wants to hold my hand again."

To learn more about the program and view other patient stories, visit MyMomentsOfClarity.com.

Spokespeople have been compensated for their time and participation in this program.