Psoriasis is a skin condition caused by the rapid development of skin cells. Instead of the cells sloughing off, they build up, causing silvery red skin on affected areas called plaque. The primary cause of psoriasis is an overactive immune system, with the condition tending to manifest before the age of 10 in children. Infection in kids can range from mild to severe, but most pediatric cases are mild. While there is no cure for the disease, you can find medicine to manage the symptoms. Read on for causes and psoriasis treatment options.
Causes of Psoriasis
At first glance, psoriasis looks like a dermatological condition, but it is actually an autoimmune disorder. When the immune system turns against the skin cells, it causes severe inflammation and hyperproduction of cells. An average body generates new skin cells every 30 days. However, in psoriasis, the body creates new cells every four days. Luckily, psoriasis is non-infectious and non-contagious, but its exact cause is unknown. Aside from the genetic predisposition, some triggers increase the chance of an outbreak. Some of the stimuli responsible for a psoriasis flare-up include:
• Skin injury: Sunburns and even minor scratches on the skin can cause a flare-up at the point of contact. It makes participating in sports difficult for children.
• Allergies: Any allergen can lead to psoriasis flare-ups, including dust, mold, food, pet dander, and detergents.
• Stress: If your child has problems in school or at home and is predisposed to psoriasis, the symptoms may manifest.
• Cold weather: Chilly temperature tends to increase the occurrence of flare-ups in some kids. However, sunny and hot weather reduces the symptoms of the skin condition.
• Obesity: Sudden increase in weight can trigger psoriasis symptoms.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
The symptoms of psoriasis depend on the type and severity of the disease. Some common psoriasis in children include:
• Plaque psoriasis: 75% of kids predisposed to the flares have plaque psoriasis characterized by red dry patches on the skin. Sometimes, the flares cause dry, silvery scales on your kid’s scalp, knees, elbows, and lower back. While plaque in children forms thinner and less scaly patches, they are itchy and painful.
• Guttate Psoriasis: It is often triggered by strep infection and affects up to 30% of kids. The condition causes small red spots that look like water drops instead of large patches in plaque psoriasis. The flares usually manifest on the legs, torso, and arms.
Other common symptoms of psoriasis include:
• Dry, cracked skin in the affected area
• Soreness and burning sensation
• Yellowing and thickening of nails
• Pitted fingernails
• Redness on your skin folds
How Parents Can Manage Psoriasis in Kids
Psoriasis is a severe condition with no cure, but you can find ways to avoid the triggers and reduce psoriasis outbreaks. In addition, for some children, psoriasis symptoms become less severe as they grow older. Some of the psoriasis treatment options include:
Topical Treatments
Ointments, creams, solutions, and lotions can minimize the discomfort from mild and moderate psoriasis. A doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce the skin patches, dry scales, and itchiness; they are effective in moisturizing affected areas and have fewer side effects.
Light Therapy
Light can improve the symptoms of psoriasis and reduce inflammation on the skin. You can spend time with your child in the sun and go for artificial light therapy recommended by the doctor. Some lasers and special lights can ease the symptoms, but be aware that overexposure can worsen the condition.
Medication
The pediatrician may recommend a medication like pills or injections for severe cases of psoriasis. However, most drugs have side effects and are reserved for older children. Ensure the medicine doesn’t pose any health risks, and your child should only use it when other treatment options aren’t working.
Lifestyle Changes
You can prevent psoriasis flare-ups by managing the triggers and keeping your kid’s body healthy. For instance, you can incorporate anti-inflammatory foods into your child’s diet and ensure they exercise and sleep well. Managing stress and practicing proper hygiene can also minimize the symptoms.
There are numerous methods of assisting your child in managing the symptoms of psoriasis. While it is a minor inconvenience for some kids, it can lead to low confidence. Therefore, regular support is necessary to avoid self-esteem issues.
Disclosure: collaborative post
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