1. Sudden Onset
The word guttate is a derivative of a Latin word that means "drop." Guttate psoriasis symptoms are small red spots on the skin that generally appear on the limbs and trunk. The onset of this form of psoriasis is usually sudden, the spots seem to "drop" on your skin. Children or young adults are most commonly affected by guttate psoriasis.
2. The Strep Throat Connection
Many different conditions are associated with the onset of guttate psoriasis. Upper respiratory infections, stress, tonsillitis, and a skin injury are some examples. Some drugs, such as beta blockers or anti-malarials, may also cause an onset. However, strep throat is a frequent cause. It is possible that a person won't show any symptoms of strep throat and have an onset of guttate psoriasis. In these cases, your doctor may conduct a throat culture to rule out a streptococcal infection. Sometimes guttate psoriasis doesn't clear up even if the underlying trigger does.
3. Treatment Options Offer Hope
Guttate psoriasis treatment is something you and your doctor should discuss. Moisturizers may be the doctor's preferred treatment; however, many patients find that applying preparations to the individual spots cumbersome. Other doctors prescribe antibiotics so that an infection that is a trigger does not reoccur. A very effective treatment is phototherapy with ultraviolet light B or a medication in combination with ultraviolet light A. Doctors reserve systemic medications for severe cases, but sometimes short-term drug therapy has been successful in a long-term clearing of guttate psoriasis.
4. Is Psoriasis Contagious?
No, none of the psoriasis conditions are contagious. Guttate psoriasis is one of five forms of the skin condition, which is a lifelong condition that affects about 7.5 million Americans. Although it is a chronic condition, most cases are mild and long periods of remission are common. Psoriasis has a genetic component to it, and it may run in families.
5. The Emotional Factor
Because guttate psoriasis affects more children and young adults, the emotional impact of the chronic skin condition must be a consideration. Some children may not be overly concerned with a new diagnosis of guttate psoriasis, but others may feel embarrassed. Talk to your child about his feelings. The condition may change who he associates with or what activities he becomes involved in. As a child becomes a teenager, the fear of rejection is common. Body image is important to teenagers. Mood swings may come and go with the flare-ups. Learning as much as you can about guttate psoriasis and then talk with your child--it's the best way to help him cope with his feelings.
