Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 5/12/2009

Question
Hello, I have been in the USMC for 9 months now. About 6 months ago, in Marine Combat Training, they didn't let us shower for 2 weeks. I developed really bad itchy, flaky, red skin that just won't go away. I soon found out I have Psoriasis. At MCT I would have to remove my kevlar and scratch my scalp and face for relief, and get yelled at for doing so. This thing goes away for 1 week then it comes back to haunt me, and it keeps repeating. It is spreading, it is all over my scalp, face, behind ears, in ears, below and above nose. I don't want to risk the lives of my Marines in combat. The civilian dermatologist has already told me that it will flare up bad when i am deployed, and says that i can possibly get discharged if it becomes a problem, which it has been. This is something that never goes away and stress triggers it along with other factors. My question to you sir, is, should I bring this problem to the higher ups? The Medical staff here is telling me I can't be seen by a dermatologist got 1-2 months. Most medication don't even help me. Please help me this is a very depressing situation.

Thanks.

Answer
Michael:
You absolutely need to address your medical issue with your chain of command, if only so that they can assist you in getting the care you need to manage your condition.  You may or may not be discharged because of your condition but the fact that you say that you're becoming depressed over it means that you have a very urgent need to get this taken care of.  Talk to your team/squad leader and let him know what the doctors said and try to get more of it taken care of.  It will also help their perception of you if they constantly yell at you for itching yourself.. They may think you lack discipline when you really do have a medical issue.  Sorry for  your discomfort, but please seek your chain of command's assistance in getting the proper care. Good luck.