Psoriasis and Children

A Difficult Mix: Psoriasis and Children

As adults, we probably all remember our childhood being an incredible time, filled with fun and laughter. You probably wish you could go back to your childhood and remain their forever. Free of fear, free of worries, free of the daily stressors of adulthood. Unfortunately, for many children this life full of excitement isn't always so exciting. There are many children dealing with health concerns and chronic diseases that impair children from experiencing the true enjoyment of their childhood. Many probably wish their childhood was over so they could join the world of less ridicule and resentment. If you are a child suffering with psoriasis, the symptoms alone can be troublesome, but not a troublesome as the teasing, the looks, and the fears that come from your classmates and peers.

The first signs of psoriasis symptoms usually occur in early adulthood however 25% of psoriasis cases occur in children under 16, and 10 percent in children under the age of ten. Naturally, no one enjoys having psoriasis, regardless of their age, but psoriasis can be especially devastating for children and even more so for adolescents. One of the biggest challenges for children with psoriasis is living in anticipation, anxiety, and fear of the next flare-up.

Children with psoriasis are often teased, and harassed for being different. This harassment comes from other classmates because of lack of knowledge and understanding. The false notion that psoriasis is contagious or related to poor hygiene causes classmates to go to extreme measures to avoid contact with a child displaying psoriasis symptoms. A greater concern commonly seen in children with psoriasis is a feeling of anger or even an overwhelmingly sadness about their skin.

As a parent or caregiver it is important to help children and teens feel more self-assured and less of an outcast because of their psoriasis. If a child shows unusual signs of being sad or depressed be sure to consult with his or her physician about a more aggressive treatment approach.

It is important for those suffering from psoriasis to engage in social support networks involving others with this skin condition so they can identify with friends. Psoriasis suffers, both children and adults can become withdrawn if they feel they are alone.

Usually psoriasis symptoms are the same for children as they are for adults, but treating a child is often harder because doctors must first consider the safety of treatment medications on a child. New treatment options may control the physical aspects of the disease, but children and teens also need strong psychological support in order to effectively cope with psoriasis.

Every child should have the opportunity to truly indulge in the pleasure and delight of being kid. As parents or caregivers, it is our responsibility to continue educating others about the reality of psoriasis and the grip it has on the individual at any age.