A specialist dermatology treatment at the Ulster Hospital is helping patients living with chronic skin conditions regain their confidence and improve their quality of life.
The Ultraviolet B (UVB) Phototherapy Service, based in the Dermatology Hub, provides carefully controlled light therapy to treat conditions such as Psoriasis, Eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions.
For Claire Batten from Bangor, the Phototherapy treatment has been life-changing.
Claire was diagnosed with Psoriasis ten years ago following a period of serious illness. What began as a medical condition started to affect every aspect of her life. Psoriasis runs in Claire’s family and her brother has also underwent UVB Phototherapy treatment to help manage the same condition.
UVB Phototherapy uses carefully controlled ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation in the skin and slow down the rapid skin cell growth that causes Psoriasis. Patients typically attend three times a week for several weeks as part of a personalised treatment plan.
Importantly, UVB Phototherapy is a medically supervised treatment and is not the same as using sunbeds. Dermatology Specialists stress that sunbeds should never be used to treat Psoriasis or other skin conditions, as they can cause significant skin damage and increase the risk of Skin Cancer.
Claire explained, “Being diagnosed with Psoriasis completely changed my life, I lost my confidence and I felt like I always had to cover up my skin. The red, scaly patches were sore and uncomfortable and nothing seemed to work.”
For years, Claire managed her condition with creams and other treatments, but despite her efforts, the Psoriasis continued to affect her daily life.
“It became part of my daily routine trying to manage it. I was using creams all the time and trying different things to control it, but it was very frustrating.”
Claire was referred to the Ulster Hospital’s UVB Phototherapy Service and began treatment in January. Claire said, “When I was told about the UVB treatment, I just felt really hopeful, I thought this could actually change my life.”
Since beginning treatment, Claire says the improvement has been remarkable, “I feel so much more confident now. I am happier in myself and I am not constantly worrying about my skin.
“I was on holiday recently and for the first time in years, I was able to show my legs, my arms and my back without feeling self-conscious. It really does feel like getting back to normal life again.”
Claire also praised the care she has received from the Dermatology Team, “The staff at the Ulster Hospital have been incredible. They could not have done any more for me. They have supported me every step of the way and really helped rebuild my confidence.”
An important part of the service is ensuring patients feel comfortable and respected throughout their treatment. The UVB therapy unit provides patients with complete privacy while undergoing treatment, helping to reduce the anxiety many people feel about their skin condition.
Staff Nurse, Claire Keenan from the Dermatology Hub explained that supporting patients emotionally is just as important as treating the condition itself. Claire stated, “In the Dermatology Hub at the Ulster Hospital, patients usually attend three times a week for around seven weeks, so we really get to know them and become part of their journey.
“At the beginning, many patients feel self-conscious or frustrated with their skin, but as the weeks progress and their skin begins to improve, you can see a real change. Their confidence grows and they start to feel happier and more positive.
“Each patient is referred by a Dermatology Doctor and receives a personalised treatment plan, which is closely monitored by trained staff to ensure safe and effective care.
“Being able to support someone through that journey, to reassure them, celebrate their progress and watch their confidence return is incredibly rewarding.
Claire continued, “We are proud to offer UVB phototherapy as part of our Dermatology Service here in the South Eastern Trust.”
For Claire Batten, the treatment has made a difference not just to her skin, but to her life. Claire added, “My message to anyone living with Psoriasis is to give this treatment a chance if it is available to you. It has made such a difference for me. I feel happier, more confident and like myself again.”