Many kids are affected by this chronic skin condition that can be quite embarrassing and emotionally stressful because it’s not curable. Psoriasis results in unattractive patches of skin and can become worse due to climatic change. The disease can be found in all people, from senior citizens to small children.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin. When a child is suffering from this condition, they will develop well-defined red patches with a white scale surface on different parts of the body. These patches will regularly become worse and then suddenly go into remission.
Various types of psoriasis can occur in kids. The most common type is known as plaque psoriasis. It causes dry, red patches known as plaques, as well as silvery scales. The scales or plaques usually show up on elbows, lower back, knees, and the scalp. They are red, itchy, and occasionally painful.
Another common type of psoriasis that develops in children is guttate psoriasis. This one leads to the formation of raindrop-like, small red patches in large groups on the skin.
Psoriasis Symptoms
Parents should look out for various symptoms to recognize psoriasis in their kids. In some cases, psoriasis may differently affect adult’s and children’s skins. The symptoms that can help to differentiate psoriasis from other conditions in kids include:
- Nail discoloration and pitting
- Pain, itching, or a general discomfort around the affected skin areas
- Severe and painful scales on the scalp
- Dermatitis around the diaper area
- Red patches in the skin folds
- Plaques on the legs, trunk, and arms
- Cracked, dry skin that can bleed
Causes of Psoriasis
Scientists have been unable to identify psoriasis’s exact cause. Nevertheless, many believe that the condition has a strong genetic component. As a result, it can be passed from one generation to the next.
Beyond this, scientists have resolved that the improper function of the immune system results in the overproduction of skin cells, which leads to the formation of psoriasis’s distinctive lesions and plaques.
Nevertheless, some proven triggers that can cause psoriasis for the first time or even lead to a worsening of the existing condition include:
- Stress
- Injury
- Medication
- Infection in the upper respiratory tract or throat
Remember, the condition isn’t infectious, and it cannot be transferred from one child to another. Thus, it is not necessary to avoid contact between those kids with the condition and those who do not. Instead, it would be beneficial if parents and caregivers encouraged children with the condition to socialize with others. It can substantially decrease feelings of isolation, while helping them to build a support network.
Psoriasis Treatment
Currently, there is no psoriasis cure. But there are available treatment methods that focus on easing symptoms whenever they occur and help to lower the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
Topical Treatments
Commonly used topical treatments for psoriasis include moisturizing and medicated lotions, ointments, creams, and solutions. The solutions can be quite messy, and your kid may need to apply them at least twice a day. However, they are very useful and tend to come with negligible side effects in comparison to other treatments.
Light Therapy
Artificial lights and natural therapy can help ease psoriasis symptoms. There are various modern options like medications and laser therapy. However, it is recommended to get help from a practitioner before using light therapy on your child.
Injected or Oral Medications
For mild to severe cases of psoriasis in kids, your child’s doctor may prescribe shots, pills, or intravenous (IV) medications. Some of these treatments come with severe side effects, so it’s essential to fully understand what the child may face before starting the treatment.
Lifestyle Changes
When it comes to suppressing psoriasis, managing the triggers is perhaps one of the best treatments. Getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet, and getting plenty of exercise will ensure that your child’s health is safe. A healthy body will have fewer chances of being attacked by any disease.
Photo by Chayene Rafaela on Unsplash
