Caring for a child with psoriasis presents unique challenges compared to other chronic health issues. For instance, children with conditions like diabetes or asthma do not have visible symptoms, and while this creates a completely different set of problems, it does not make them stand out from the rest of their peers. Psoriasis is different because it can cause moderate to severe scaling, which causes other kids and even adults to shy away from contact, believing that the condition might be contagious. It is important for parents to understand and accept that psoriasis treatment needs to go beyond treating symptoms and should also address the impact that psoriasis will have on their child’s social life, self-esteem, and overall mental health.(Disclaimer: This article contains collaborative content, meaning we may receive compensation from the products or services mentioned.)
1. Triggers Can Change Over Time
Identifying triggers as early as possible will help to manage your child’s psoriasis. Unfortunately, this isn’t just a one-and-done thing. Children often develop new triggers or one of their existing triggers may suddenly cause a more severe flare up. This is where a psoriasis guide can help parents because it covers a wide range of triggers, as well as potential complications and new treatment options. Even common medications like ibuprofen can be a trigger, so it is important for you to identify and track all your child’s triggers to reduce the risk of a flare up.
2. Dietary Changes Will Not Cure Psoriasis
There is nothing more heartbreaking than watching your child in physical and emotional pain. This is one of the main reasons why parents of children diagnosed with psoriasis often spend years hunting for a natural remedy or dietary changes that will cure their child’s psoriasis. Having said that, there is some evidence that dietary changes can reduce symptom severity. Since psoriasis is an inflammatory condition, it is reasonable that foods that promote inflammation, such as processed foods, increase the risk of a flare up while anti-inflammatory foods, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, can help to reduce symptoms.
3. Swap Creams for Thick Moisturizers
While creams are effective for typical skincare, they do little to improve psoriasis symptoms. Applying thick moisturizers will help manage your child’s psoriasis as they soften thickened skin to prevent cracking, decrease itching and improve skin barrier function. Most moisturizers contain a lot of stabilizing agents and other additives that can aggravate your child’s symptoms, so you can try to make your own thick moisturizing lotion at home. This also allows you to tweak the recipe over and over again until you find the ideal combination for your child’s individual needs. Thick moisturizers tend to be a little messy, so it’s best to apply them at bedtime.
4. Help Improve their Body Image
The prefrontal cortex of the brain plays a crucial role in generating and regulating emotions, which includes emotional processing and social emotions. A child’s brain, including this area, is not as developed as an adult’s, which is why children have a tough time regulating their emotions. This explains why your child’s reaction may seem disproportionate to you, and it is also why you need to actively help improve their body image. Some parents think that telling their child not to feel bad about their psoriasis will somehow make them feel better, but this couldn’t be further from the truth! Instead, listen to your child’s problems and validate their emotions so that they feel comfortable telling you about how their psoriasis impacts their life. You can also help them develop positive self-talk and encourage them to see their positive qualities and accomplishments so that they do not feel that they are defined by their skin condition. A child therapist who specializes in chronic conditions will make sure that your kid is empowered to handle stigmatization by helping them develop coping skills and reframe negative thoughts.
5. Give your Child More Control
Psoriasis does tremendous damage to a child’s mental health, so find ways to empower your kid by giving them more control. For example, instead of applying their creams and ointments, you can teach them to do it by themselves under your supervision. It can take a while to find a skincare routine that is just right for your child – you can experiment a little with tips for sensitive skin, as this can help you find out what works and what doesn’t. Similarly, allow your child to decide which of their friends’ parents you can talk to about their psoriasis, as this will also give you a chance to address any concerns they may have.
Your child is at a higher risk of guttate psoriasis triggered by strep throat, so your child’s pediatrician may recommend a throat swab test if your child has an unexpected flare up. Depending on your child’s age, you can also involve them in discussions with their doctor regarding their treatment plan.
