Signs and symptoms of psoriasis in kids
There are different types of psoriasis, each with its own special symptoms. Although there are some more common symptoms of psoriasis, such as:
- Swollen patches of skin that are red and covered with whitish-silvery scales. This is commonly mistaken for diaper rash in infants.
- Dry skin that bleeds easily
- Itchiness
- Soreness in the affected area
- Red areas in skin folds
- You may experience different nail changes, such as:
- Thick and pitted fingernails
- Deep ridges in nails
- Yellowing and thickening of the nails
- Detachment of the nail from its bed
Psoriasis in children tends to show up first on the scalp. It is also common for it to affect the nails.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, which means all the signs may never go away completely. The condition also cycles through a period of active and less active times.
Your child will experience more symptoms during active times. Within a few weeks, the symptoms may improve.
You may also experience flare-ups, following an illness. But it is difficult to know how severe the symptoms will be once the cycle begins.