Detecting For Baby Psoriasis

Although psoriasis symptoms appear to be more common in the 15 to 35 age group, the skin disorder can affect at anyone at any age. There have also been some rare instances of babies being born with psoriasis. Skin conditions that may mimic psoriasis are: cradle cap, diaper rash, ringworm and eczema. Hence it is easy to get confused as to which condition your child is suffering from.

If your baby does have psoriasis, you can observe his or her skin cells in the affected area maturing every 3 to 4 days instead of monthly. If this is the case, you should bring your baby for a consultation with a skin dermatologist.

Researchers say that an abnormal immune system may be the cause of the rapidly growing skin cells and possibly a genetic connection as well. A child may have other family members with psoriasis or the child may be the only known individual in the family with psoriasis.

It has also been found that an illness such as a cold, or tonsillitis, skin injuries from scratching or rubbing can trigger childhood flare-ups of guttate psoriasis. Cotton mittens or socks place over the baby’s hands, especially during sleep, can help reduce more damage done to the skin through scratching.

Of course, your baby is not going to feel comfortable if the affected area is itchy. He or she is likely to make it worse by scratching the skin until it bleeds. Dry skin is also prone to cracking and is more itchy as well.

Psoriasis can often be confused with eczema. The way to tell the difference is that psoriasis looks worse than eczema and is more red and scaly. Eczema is usually pink in color and less scaly but it is usually rougher in texture. It is imperative that your doctor examine your baby’s skin and may even require that your baby take a skin biopsy for a more accurate diagnosis.

You may be concerned that your baby’s psoriasis is contagious and would not like him or her to play with others. However, you need not worry. Psoriasis symptoms are not infectious.

Unfortunately, psoriasis seem to be a lifelong condition. Your baby is going to have flare-ups every now and then, as he/she goes through life. Different conditions (weather, environment, emotions, chemicals) can trigger flare-ups. Psoriasis symptoms may clear up for a period of remission before appearing again, due to certain triggers.

You can reduce the frequency and severity of the flareups by helping your baby to avoid triggers. Keeping to a good diet for your baby can also be helpful.