Pemphigus vulgaris is a chronic, relapsing disease. This means most people living with PV can expect to have disease flare-ups at some point.

Some flare-ups are serious and you need to see your consultant as soon as possible so your medication can be temporarily increased as necessary. Unless you already have specific instructions from your dermatologist on how to alter doses, you will need to be seen in person. Once the flare-up is controlled, your dermatologist will start to lower your dose again.

After PV is controlled and you have been living with it for a few years, you will generally be able to judge if a flare-up is serious or not. Sometimes resting and avoiding your personal triggers (if you've been able to identify them) is enough to calm down a minor flare. (For triggers see ‘Does anything make pemphigus vulgaris worse?’).

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