Psoriasis in Children

December 27th, 2009

It is a parent’s natural instinct to protect their children so it is therefore quite difficult to watch their child suffer. Psoriasis in children is particularly hard to cope with as although adults are more able to control their desire to scratch, children can lack any self-control and worsen their problem.

Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis in children and this will affect the elbows, knees and often the lower back. Additionally, you will tend to find scalp psoriasis and/or guttate psoriasis. The latter form often manifests as a strep throat but once treated it is rare for it to reappear.

Although often genetic in nature, psoriasis triggers can vary and no one really knows the main cause or who will be the most at risk. An injury to the skin can act as a trigger and even when a child reaches puberty.

As with adults, one of the best ways to treat psoriasis in children is to moisturise frequently. The more you moisturize, the less your child will itch and therefore be inclined to scratch and it is wise to give your child a bottle of moisturizer to carry with them so they can quickly help stop the itching. Although it may not work (!), you should at least try and impress onto your child as to why they should not pick at any scabs or wounds. The more they know, the more likely they will be inclined to restrain from picking and prevent outbreaks.

Although there are over the counter medications for psoriasis in children, you should take your doctor’s advice first. Home remedies include adding some unscented oil to their bath and to pat them dry quickly and immediately moisturise well.

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