What you need to know about your child s PSORIASIS. Includes Aoife s story, for older children. Psoriasis

Transcription

1 What you need to know about your child s PSORIASIS Includes Aoife s story, for older children Ps Psoriasis

2 The Irish Skin Foundation is a national charity with a mission to improve quality of life for people with skin conditions, promote skin health and the prevention of skin disease through support, advocacy and by raising awareness. We hope you find this booklet about psoriasis helpful and informative. If you would like more information, visit our website or call our Helpline on (01) Welcome to your guide to psoriasis in children

3 What you need to know about your child s PSORIASIS Please note, the content of this booklet is presented for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be relied upon as the basis for any decision or action in respect of your child s care. Always consult your doctor for medical advice. Who is this booklet for? 5 Finding out that your child has psoriasis 6 Daily care and treatments for psoriasis 9 Daily care: Emollients 10 Treatment guide: Topical 12 Treatment guide: Phototherapy 17 Treatment guide: Systemics 18 Treatment guide: Biologics 19 What is the best clothing to wear 21 What you can do to help your child 22 Some things to remember 25 Aoife s story - Living with psoriasis 26 3

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5 You ve This booklet been diagnosed has been with psoriasis. prepared for Now anybody what? caring for a child with psoriasis, to help you: Better understand the condition Learn about available psoriasis treatments Understand the importance of a daily care routine Find useful tips to help your child As with most other diseases, the more you know about psoriasis, the more you can do about it. It can be very worrying when psoriasis patches first appear so we have put together this booklet with the help of people with psoriasis, dermatology nurses and consultant dermatologists (skin specialists). We explain what psoriasis is, how it affects children, how it can be treated, and how parents, teachers, and friends can help children to deal with everyday situations. We have also included a story about Aoife, a young girl with psoriasis, at the back of this booklet. You may find reading Aoife s story with your child a helpful way to talk about dealing with other people s remarks in a less personal way.

6 Finding out that your child has psoriasis What should I do? Getting a diagnosis is important. Sometimes psoriasis can be mistaken for other skin conditions, so it is important to visit your GP to establish a diagnosis and to receive appropriate treatment. Occasionally, onward referral to a dermatologist (skin specialist) may be necessary. So your child has been diagnosed with psoriasis what is it? Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition which affects approximately 2-3% of the world s population. It causes an increase in the rate at which skin cells are produced and shed from the skin. The extra skin cells build-up rapidly on the surface of the skin forming dry, red raised patches that are sometimes covered in thickened silvery scale. These are called plaques. Psoriasis often affects the scalp, elbows and knees but can affect any part of the body. Is it contagious? No, you cannot catch it from somebody and they cannot catch it from you. What causes psoriasis? Where have these red patches come from? Why aren t they going away? Is it serious? The exact cause of psoriasis is still not known. It is a condition that tends to run in families. Several different genes have been identified but the exact way in which the disorder moves from generation to generation has not yet been established. What is known is that both the immune system and genetics are important in its development. It can be triggered in children by a combination of factors including injury to the skin, a streptococcal sore throat or emotional upset. For some people, psoriasis may only occur once, but for others it may recur throughout their life. It is equally common in boys and girls. 6

7 Does psoriasis itch? Although some people suggest that psoriasis does not itch, most people who have it, say that it does. Itch can be very distracting and uncomfortable for any person with psoriasis, especially a child. Moisturisers can help soothe the itch and can make the skin less dry. Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to recommend products that are suitable for your child. Can diet affect psoriasis? There is no clear link between diet and the severity of psoriasis symptoms, but a nutritious balanced diet is very important for health and well-being. Talk to your doctor if you are worried about your child s diet. Most common types of psoriasis Guttate and plaque psoriasis are the most commonly occurring types of psoriasis in children. Guttate psoriasis appears as small drop like lesions, sometimes triggered by a sore throat caused by a streptococcal infection. Plaque psoriasis appears as round patches of different sizes that can occur anywhere on the body. 7

8 Is there a cure? Although there is no cure yet for psoriasis, there are many effective treatments available. Your doctor may prescribe topical treatments which come in the form of creams, ointments, lotions or other preparations that are applied directly to the skin, and this may be all that is required for mild to moderate psoriasis. Try not to become disillusioned if one treatment does not work there are a range of treatments available. Discuss progress and if necessary, alternative options with your doctor. What can I do? When your child is diagnosed with psoriasis, one of the best things to do is to educate him/her about the condition. Answer any questions or address any worries they may have, as they arise, for example dispelling incorrect fears that psoriasis might be contagious or the result of poor hygiene. Provide reassurance on a regular basis, take an interest in how they feel, and monitor their psoriasis in a discreet way, so as not to make a big issue of it. Encourage your child to talk openly about their condition and not to hide it. Listen to what your child has to say about the treatments they are using. If a product stings, is too sticky or uncomfortable, or makes them itchy, they are unlikely to use it. It is important to discuss these issues with your doctor, so that alternative treatments can be prescribed. The good news is that there is ongoing research, both to find a cure and to develop effective treatments that are easier to use and offer longer periods of remission. 8

9 Daily Care and Treatments for Psoriasis Psoriasis treatment usually involves applying ointments, creams or lotions regularly. If you are unsure how to do this or about the frequency of application, make sure to ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist - there is no such thing as a stupid question. Tell your doctor if it is difficult to make their recommendations a part of your everyday life. There may be other alternatives. While the treatment of psoriasis depends on its severity and location, the use of emollients (commonly known as moisturisers), and emollient wash products (which are used instead of soap and shower gel), form an important part of daily skin care. Treatments can be divided into four main categories: Topical treatments come in the form of creams, ointments, lotions and gels which are applied directly to the skin. Phototherapy is a form of artificial ultraviolet light, delivered in hospital dermatology departments. Systemic treatments are drugs that work through-out the body. They may come in the form of a liquid, tablet or injection. Biologic treatments are targeted medicines used to inhibit part of the immune system that drives inflammation. These are mainly injections but some are now being developed in tablet form.

10 EMOLLIENT THERAPY Essential Daily Care: The importance of emollient therapy Emollients are moisturisers which are used in two ways - applied directly to the skin as a leave-on moisturiser, and as a soap substitute instead of soap and shower gel. Used every day, emollients help to: soften the scale soothe dry, itchy skin increase the effectiveness of prescribed treatments Soap substitutes - emollient wash products Avoid using ordinary soap, shower gel and bubble bath as they dry out the skin by stripping away its natural oils. Instead, choose emollient wash products when bathing or showering. These products cleanse but do not lather like ordinary soap. A higher price doesn t necessarily indicate a better product - ask your healthcare professional for advice. Using an emollient in the bath Follow one of the following two options: Emollients, for example Silcock s Base or Emulsifying ointment, are usually sold in tubs and need to be diluted before use. Take two tablespoons of emollient out of the container using a clean spoon, NOT fingers (to prevent contamination), and transfer into a jug. Add hot water and whisk with a fork for five minutes before adding to the bath. A bath additive solution can simply be poured into the bath - ask your healthcare professional for an appropriate recommendation. 10

11 How to choose an emollient The best emollients are those that you or your child prefer to use and will continue to use every day, so finding the right emollient for you may be a matter of trial and error. Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist will be able to advise you about the different emollient products available. Aqueous cream Aqueous cream was originally developed as a soap substitute. Until recently however, it was used as both a soap substitute and a moisturiser. It is now known that when used as a moisturiser, aqueous cream can irritate the skin. For this reason, it is recommended that aqueous cream is used as a soap substitute only. How to apply emollients to the skin Emollients should be applied every day and are an essential part of your child s long-term skincare regime. Emollients should be applied in a smooth, downward motion, in the direction of hair growth, after a bath/shower and before going to bed. Emollients come as lotions, creams, and ointments. However, ointments work best when the skin is very dry. Sometimes, you may need to use more than one product. You may choose to use an ointment at night and cream or lotion during the day. Apply 30 minutes before application of topical treatments prescribed by your doctor.

12 TOPICAL TREATMENTS (Applied to the skin) Option 1 in psoriasis treatment Topical treatments are typically used when psoriasis is mild to moderate. They work by slowing down the accelerated rate at which skin cells are produced, and/or by reducing the inflammation associated with psoriasis. Topical treatments may also be prescribed to be used alongside other therapies. Topical corticosteroids A class of drugs, also known as topical steroids, available in varying strengths - mildly potent, moderately potent, potent, very potent. These can be effective, but strong steroid creams can have significant side effects including thinning of the skin and rebound flaring of psoriasis. They are most effective when used alongside other topical treatments. It is important to use as directed by your doctor. They are not recommended for long term use. Mild topical steroids: e.g. 1% Hydrocortisone, are prescribed for sensitive areas such as the face, neck, underarms and genitalia. Moderately potent steroids: e.g. Eumovate or Betnovate RD, may be prescribed for the body, usually for a limited time. 12

13 Topical combinations In some cases a combination of steroid with a tar based cream e.g. 5% LPC in Betnovate RD, may be prescribed. This should be applied once daily usually at night time. Products containing tar have a distinctive smell and may stain bedclothes, so it is advisable to wear a pair of old pyjamas. It can be washed off in the morning with a soap substitute. If using this product, apply moisturisers in the morning and afternoon. A combination product e.g. Dovobet, contains a potent steroid called betamethasone and calcipotriol (Vitamin D3). It can be used on the body but NOT on the face. This is a once daily application and will be prescribed for a limited time. Topical non-steroid Calcipotriol - A topical form of synthetic vitamin D with efficacy similar to that of moderate strength corticosteroids, but with fewer side effects. It has no smell and is easy to use. It can be irritating at certain sites and is not recommended on the face. Tar - Coal tar products may be prescribed for children with psoriasis and are especially useful for scalp psoriasis. However,they can have a strong smell, some types may stain clothing and children may dislike the odour. Dithranol - Dithranol preparations are sometimes prescribed for plaque psoriasis to be used as a short-contact treatment; this means leaving it on the skin for a specified number of minutes, and then washing it off in the shower or bath. However, it can be tricky to use and must be applied to the affected areas while wearing gloves. It can burn the skin if too concentrated, and stains everything it comes into contact with, including skin, clothes and bathroom fittings. It is not suitable for the face or flexural areas. Protopic 0.03% - Protopic contains the active ingredient tacrolimus, which is a type of medicine known as a topical immunomodulator, and works by decreasing skin inflammation. It is used for the face and flexural areas of the skin as an alternative to topical steroids. It may be prescribed for use once or twice daily. How to use Steroids 1. Steroids should be applied to the correct location, for the correct period of time, as directed by your doctor. Wash hands before and after use. 2. Apply enough steroid to cover the area of psoriasis, in a downward motion. Skin should be glistening in appearance after application. 1313

14 TREATMENTS FOR SCALP PSORIASIS Scalp psoriasis may appear as red, raised, scaly plaques which can extend to, or just beyond the hairline and commonly occurs behind the ears. The combination of a medicated shampoo, coal tar preparation and a prescribed topical steroid, may help to relieve the itch and calm the flare up, when used as follows: Tar based shampoos are useful for treating the scale that is present in scalp psoriasis. To be effective, the lather should be left on the scalp for approximately 5 minutes to allow the active ingredients to work, and then rinsed off. Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist can recommend a suitable shampoo. A topical coal tar preparation e.g. Cocois scalp application, can be effective at softening and removing scale, and is available from your pharmacist without prescription. Starting at one side of the head, part the hair and apply to a scaly lesion, working your way around the whole of the head. For the first application, leave on for 2 hours and then wash out. If tolerated, it can be left in overnight for subsequent treatments. Tar can stain clothes and bedclothes so when leaving on overnight, we suggest using old pillowcases. Alternatively, a shower cap can be used to protect the bedclothes from staining. Cocois should be used daily initially and then according to need. Use a comb to gently descale and lift the dead skin cells from the scalp - this allows the prescription medication to get to work on the newer skin cells underneath. Be careful not to break the skin as this can make the psoriasis worse. Apply prescription medication. Prescribed medication from your doctor may be in the form of lotion, mousse or gel. These products often contain steroids. Always follow the directions given by your doctor. 14

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16 POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TOPICAL TREATMENT Like all medicines, topical treatments can have side effects so it is important to apply the prescribed treatment to the correct location, for the correct period of time, as directed by your doctor. A mild steroid is usually prescribed to the face, underarms and groin area. Avoid using steroids close to the eyes and try to prevent your child rubbing the eyes and eye area after application. Strong steroids are only usually prescribed for a limited time as they can cause skin thinning, increased growth of fine hair and in extreme cases, affect the growth of the child. Cocois ointment contains an active ingredient called salicylic acid which removes the scale. You can stop using the cocois ointment when the scale is gone as the salicylic acid can be harsh on the skin. Tar based creams can sometimes cause folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles), which appear as little red lumps on the skin and may be irritated or sore. Tar preparations can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so exposure of the skin to the sun is best avoided while using these products. Apply at night time and wash off in the morning. Protopic may cause some stinging on the first few applications. Apply at night time. Emollient can be applied either 2 hours before or after application. Remember sun protection - use a broad spectrum sunscreen, factor 30+, with high UVA protection (4 or 5 stars) during the day, and avoid sun exposure where possible. Always inform your GP if your child is using Protopic as there are specific requirements in relation to vaccinations. It is recommended to wait at least 14 days between the last application and the vaccination. This is extended to 28 days in the case of live vaccines. 16

17 PHOTOTHERAPY (UVB Treatment) Option 2 in psoriasis treatment This is a form of artificial ultraviolet light treatment, comprising of ultraviolet B (UVB) wavelenghts of light. UVB, which is also present in sunlight, penetrates the skin and slows down the accelerated rate at which skin cells develop in psoriasis. It involves exposing the skin to light three times a week for several weeks in a hospital based dermatology department. Although phototherapy may help to improve psoriasis symptoms, it can cause side effects such as a sunburn type reaction. Talk to your doctor about the the benefits and risks of treatment. 17

18 SYSTEMIC TREATMENTS These medications work throughout the body to control the psoriasis. They may come in the form of a liquid, a tablet or an injection. Option 3 in psoriasis treatment Methotrexate - a drug which inhibits the rapid development of skin cells caused by the abnormal activity of the immune system. Ciclosporin - a drug that supresses T-cells in the immune system, originally used to prevent organ rejection in kidney transplant patients. Acitretin - a synthetic compound with biologic activity similar to that of vitamin A. It helps normalise the abnormal, accelerated development of skin cells in psoriasis. What to expect from systemic treatment Systemic medication may be prescribed in circumstances where topical treatments and phototherapy have not worked, or are contraindicated. Unlike topicals and phototherapy, that affect only the skin, systemic treatments affect the underlying cause of psoriasis an abnormal immune system response that causes inflammation, and an increase in the rate at which skin cells are produced and shed from the skin. Systemic medications can cause side effects, some of which may be serious. However, patients are reviewed regularly to monitor for, and avoid potential side effects. Some medications affect the body s ability to fight certain types of infections. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of any medication that is prescribed. Please see the British Association of Dermatologists Immunisation recommendations for children and adult patients treated with immune-suppressing medicines: 18

19 BIOLOGIC TREATMENTS Biologic drugs are designed to target and inhibit specific parts of the immune system that drive inflammation. The drugs mentioned below are all given by injection. Option 4 in psoriasis treatment Adalimumab an anti-tnf monoclonal antibody (TNF-alpha is a molecule which increases immune activity in the skin) Licensed for the treatment of severe chronic plaque psoriasis in children and adolescents from four years of age who have not adequately responded to, or are not suitable candidates for, topical treatments and phototherapy. Etanercept a TNF-alpha receptor blocker Licensed for patients from the age of six years with long-term severe plaque psoriasis, who have not responded to, or cannot receive other treatments for this disease. Ustekinumab a monoclonal antibody that blocks interleukin 12/23 (These interleukins are involved in the abnormal immune responses in psoriasis) Licensed for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adolescents from the age of 12 years and older, who are inadequately controlled by, or cannot use other systemic therapies or phototherapies. What to expect from biologic treatment In circumstances where other treatments are not suitable, have not provided symptom relief, or if your child is experiencing side effects, the doctor may prescribe a biologic. Unlike systemic agents that act broadly on the immune system, biologics target specific parts of the immune system that are responsible for causing inflammation in psoriasis. Biologics are given by injection under the skin, and target and effectively improve psoriasis symptoms. The treatment schedule varies from drug to drug. Biologics can cause side effects, some of which may be serious. However, patients are reviewed regularly to monitor for, and avoid potential side effects. Some medications affect the body s ability to fight certain types of infections. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of any medication that is prescribed. Next steps The good news is that there is ongoing research, both to find a cure for psoriasis, and to develop newer and more effective treatments. Please see the British Association of Dermatologists Immunisation recommendations for children and adult patients treated with immune-suppressing medicines:

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21 What is the best clothing to wear? Loose fitting cotton clothing is probably the most comfortable, especially during the summer months. If your child would like to wear synthetic clothing such as a football top, this could be worn over a cotton vest, for example. It is sometimes best to be guided by your child, and how their skin feels during a flare-up. Some topical treatments are messy to use, while others can stain. Always read product/patient instruction leaflets before use, and consider setting aside some old clothing and bed linen to use if required. Choose cotton pyjamas and clothing whenever possible. Other useful tips When your child s skin is itchy we suggest that you: 1 Apply moisturisers frequently 2 Keep the skin cool keep heating at a low temperature 21

22 What you can do to help your child Your child s needs are important. Be there to listen to them. While you may wish to protect your child from potentially uncomfortable situations, try not to inadvertently make your child self conscious, by encouraging them to cover up their psoriasis. For example, let them wear shorts or a t-shirt if they choose. Sometimes other people s reactions can be hard to deal with, and occasionally can even be hurtful. Take the initiative People may react in the way that they do because they don t really understand what psoriasis is. The best way to stop negativity can be to anticipate questions or to encourage them. You may not be able to stop the curious looks that the symptoms create, but you can explain and provide reassurance. You could say I can see that you are curious about my child s skin so let me explain what the patches are. Similarly, your child may find having a conversation with his/her friends about psoriasis helps to create a better understanding. 22

23 School and sports The school environment can often be a source of anxiety for children with psoriasis, as well as those who care for them. There may be comments from other children. You want your child to feel comfortable and thrive, but may worry about protecting them from hurtful remarks. You may find reading Aoife s story with your child (at the end of this booklet), a helpful way to talk about dealing with other people s remarks in a less personal way. The teacher will play an important role in your child s life as he/she will be spending many hours at school each day. You may like to give information to the school so that teachers can explain what psoriasis is to your child s classmates, using simple terms, and answer questions should they arise. Psoriasis need not stop children from taking part in sport, but have a word with the staff in advance so that they understand what psoriasis is, and are equipped in the case of questions or comments. Remember, sunburn must be avoided at all times. Make sure to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen factor 30+, which offers protection against both UVA and UVB. 23

24 Will the sun help my child s psoriasis? Many people who have psoriasis find that sunlight can help their skin to clear. However, being sensible in the sun is important and sunburn must be avoided at all times. While sunburn is a risk for skin cancer, it can also bring about the Koebner phenomenon - this is where psoriasis can develop at the site of an injury, such as a sunburn. Sun protection is important for everyone, with or without psoriasis. In Ireland, protect your child (and yourself) from March September, when the intensity of sunburn producing UV radiation is greatest. Avoid sun exposure between the hours of 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its strongest. Apply a broad spectrum factor 30+ sunscreen, which offers protection against both UVA and UVB, in addition to protective clothing and shade. Sunscreen should be applied liberally and evenly minutes before sun exposure to allow it time to dry, and again shortly after going outdoors to ensure that all areas are covered. Reapply frequently, at least every two hours and after perspiring, sport, swimming, or friction (such as towel drying). No sunscreen can provide 100% sun protection. Remember the five Ss of sun safety Slip on a t-shirt, Slop on (broad-spectrum) sunscreen factor 30+, Slap on a hat, Slide on sunglasses, Seek shade. Good sun-safe habits will give you the reassurance that your child is protected whilst having fun. Teach your child the importance of good sun-safe habits. 24

25 Some things to remember You are not alone psoriasis is more common than you might think! It affects approximately 2-3% of the world s population. Men and women, and boys and girls of all races get psoriasis. It is not contagious you cannot spread it to other people and it cannot be transferred from one part of the body to another. Psoriasis can be controlled - there are many different treatments available. Your doctor may prescribe a number different treatments before finding one that works for you. Using an emollient to moisturise the skin at least twice a day can help alleviate dryness, scaling, soreness and itch. An emollient bath prepares the skin before the application of prescribed topical treatments. Never stick your fingers into a tub of emollient. Always use a clean spoon or spatula. If you would like more information or support please contact us. Irish Skin Foundation Nurse Helpline: nurse@irishskin.ie 25

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27 AOIFE S STORY A story about living with psoriasis for young people The experiences and circumstances of young people with psoriasis, their parents or guardians, teachers and other students, differ. The scenario depicted in this booklet aims to offer support and open discussion; it should not be considered an exhaustive guide to dealing with stigma, bullying or other complex themes raised in the booklet. 27

28 Aoife is 13 and a typical teenager. Life is good. She has a loving family, is a confident person and has lots of friends. She loves fashion, shopping and music. She doesn t have any unusual problems at school. Although she s doing well in school, she does have a slight problem with swimming... This is because she has recently grown very concious of her body. Over the past year or so, Aoife has developed a rash which makes her feel itchy and uncomfortable about how it looks. She often skips swimming classes, giving a different excuse each time.

29 One day, her PE teacher, Ms Byrne, corners her. You see, the reason I have missed swimming... Aoife, you ve missed every swimming lesson so far this term. I m going to have to fail you! You ll have to be there tomorrow. It s important. Look, no more excuses. You re swimming tomorrow with the rest of the class. Although she has a problem that she s determined to hide, Aoife feels that she s got no choice but to get into the pool tomorrow. Aoife goes home and is very anxious about the next day s swimming lesson and what her friends might think of her skin.

30 AT THE POOL... Next day at the swimming pool, Aoife makes her way to the changing rooms, but waits until the other girls have left before changing into her swimsuit. When Aoife has changed, she slowly makes her way to the pool... She is incredibly nervous and has butterflies in her stomach. She can t stop thinking about her rash. Eventually she arrives at the pool...

31 ...and it doesn t take long before the other girls notice that there is something a little different about Aoife s skin. What are the girls looking at? What!? Wow! And just like that, Aoife finds herself to be the centre of attention. Ugh? That s enough! Aoife, you re up next. Are you ready?

32 Hey Aoife, what s with the scabs on your arms and legs? Look gross! Ha! Ha! I m not getting into the water after you. What if I end up getting scabby too?! Ha! Aoife tries to ignore the other kids... But the taunts get louder...

33 Aoife tries to ignore the jeering. It s not easy. She feels really embarrassed and singled out. She dives in and gets out of the pool as quickly as possible....the jeering goes on.

34 What s wrong with me? Embarrassed, Aoife leaves the pool as quickly as possible... THE BUS RIDE HOME... The taunts continue throughout the rest of the day, even on the bus ride home. Hey Aoife, your skin is so flaky, or is it just snowing in here? Aoife s friend Holly helps her to deal with the situation Just ignore them and take a deep breath Aoife feels a whole lot better knowing that she has at least one good friend.

35 LATER THAT EVENING... Aoife skips dinner, she just has a snack and goes straight to her room. She tells her parents that she s a little tired and just wants to have an early night. But really, she just wants to forget about the day. Aoife usually spends her Saturday morning hanging out with her friend, Holly. Just as she s about to go to sleep, she hears ther phone buzz. Buzz!! Buzz!! Buzz!! 35 It was a notification from her favourite social site, telling her that she had a new message to view

36 When she looked at her phone, Aoife had received some mean, nasty comments, which hurt her very much. The messages kept coming... Buzz!! Buzz!! Buzz!! Buzz!! Buzz!! She felt a little better eventually. She turned off her phone, thought about the day and felt glad that not everyone seems to care about her skin. but one was from Holly, who liked the selfie that Aoife posted earlier that day. She posted a lovely message too.

37 THE NEXT MORNING... After a while, her dad went to check on her. Aoife woke but didn t feel like breakfast Aoife, is everything OK? Holly just called, she says your phone is switched off. I m fine But Aoife wasn t fine, yesterday at the pool really upset her. She didn t know what was wrong with her or who to turn to. She thought that no-one could help her. So she decided that her bedroom was the safest place to be......and there she stayed.

38 The next day, Aoife s parents became worried. Aoife, is everything OK? Aoife had never acted like this before. They knew something was wrong. Aoife s mum went to her room to see what was going on. Honestly, I m fine. Please just leave me alone Aoife please, just open the door. Aoife tells her mum about the incident at the pool. Eventually Aoife opens her bedroom door and lets her mum in. Try not to worry, we ll get to the bottom of this, I promise.

39 Aoife s mother made an appointment for her to visit her GP. Although Aoife is a little nervous, she s determined to find out what s causing her rash. A FEW DAYS LATER... The GP listens and then examines Aoife s skin. She explains that Aoife is suffering from psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes raised, red, scaly patches to appear on the skin. It usually affects the outside of the elbows, knees or scalp, but can appear on other parts of the body. Psoriasis causes skin cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin - 4 times faster than normal.

40 Aoife s GP prescribes some treatment and reassures her that psoriasis is not contagious. The GP refers Aoife to a dermatologist, a specialist doctor dealing with skin, to take a closer look at her psoriasis. The GP tells Aoife to look up the Irish Skin Foundation s website for more information. Some months later, Aoife visits a dermatologist as well as a specialist nurse Her dermatology nurse specialist offers practical help and advice. Aoife leaves feeling happy and reassured

41 Aoife takes her treatment home and starts to use it straight away. Treatment begins... After finishing the application of her treatment, Aoife already feels much better. Aoife s learns that through a few adjustments, she can manage her psoriasis far better. This means that it s impact on her life is kept to a minimum so she can get on with life like any other teenager. 41

42 Some time later, Aoife s mum visits her school... She provides Aoife s teachers with some helpful information about psoriasis. Ms Byrne understands why Aoife was shy about swimming too. She discusses psoriasis with Aoife s classmates. Back at the pool... The whispers and jeers at swimming classes 42 stopped Aoife is able to enjoy swimming classes like everyone else.

43 Treating psoriasis can be challenging because it is unpredictable and flare-ups reoccur. Aoife s psoriasis hasn t gone away, but it s under much better control. Aoife is back on track, she s doing well in school and looking forward to her 14th birthday. Her main problem these days is homework sound familiar?! 43

44 What you need to know about your child s PSORIASIS Ps Psoriasis This booklet has been prepared by the Irish Skin Foundation in consultation with people with psoriasis, dermatology nurses and consultant dermatologists. Brought to you by the Irish Skin Foundation Charles Institute UCD University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 tel: info@irishskin.ie Charity Regulatory Authority Number: Date of preparation: October 2016 The production costs of this booklet were sponsored by All rights reserved