Children with Inflammatory Skin Diseases are at Higher Risk for Sleep and Psychological Disorders

A Growing Concern for Clinicians and Families

Unaddressed Skin Issues Can Have Far-Reaching Consequences

Children with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or urticaria are more likely to develop sleep and psychological disorders. Studies have shown that these skin conditions can disrupt sleep patterns, impact mood, and negatively affect overall quality of life. Clinicians and families often overlook the potential effects of skin diseases on children’s psychological well-being.

Prevalent Sleep Disorders in Children with Inflammatory Skin Diseases

• **Hypersomnia**: A condition characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, children with psoriasis are 3.2 times more likely to develop hypersomnia. • **Sleep Apnea**: Children with psoriasis are 2.1 times more likely to develop sleep apnea. • **Fatigue**: Children with psoriasis are 1.8 times more likely to develop fatigue. • **Depression**: Children with psoriasis are 1.9 times more likely to develop depression. Similarly, children with urticaria and atopic dermatitis have a higher risk of developing sleep disorders, anxiety disorders, and insomnia.

Statistics from the Study

Condition	Likelihood of Developing Hypersomnia	Likelihood of Developing Sleep Apnea	Likelihood of Developing Fatigue	Likelihood of Developing Depression
Psoriasis	3.2 times	2.1 times	1.8 times	1.9 times
Urticaria	1.7-fold	1.6-fold	1.4-fold	1.4-fold
Atopic Dermatitis	1.5-fold	1.4-fold	1.3-fold	1.2-fold

A Call to Action for Clinicians

Clinicians must consider the broader effects of skin disease on children’s sleep and psychological well-being. By addressing these concerns, clinicians can provide more comprehensive care and improve outcomes for their patients. Expert Advice
Danilo Del Campo, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist at the Chicago Skin Clinic, emphasizes the importance of considering sleep and psychological disorders in children with inflammatory skin diseases. “Inflammatory skin conditions in children do not just affect the skin,” Dr. Del Campo said. “They can disrupt sleep, impact mood, and take a toll on overall quality of life.”
Key Strategies for Addressing Sleep Loss
• **Sleep Expert Involvement**: Involving sleep experts and other specialists versed in pediatric wellness can help clinicians develop effective treatment plans. • **Sleep Hygiene Tips**: Recommending sleep hygiene tips, such as sleeping at the same time each night, making sure the room is dark, and removing blue light-emitting devices from the room, can help children with inflammatory skin diseases improve their sleep quality. Conclusion
Addressing the potential effects of inflammatory skin diseases on children’s sleep and psychological well-being is crucial. By considering the broader effects of skin disease and involving sleep experts and other specialists, clinicians can provide more comprehensive care and improve outcomes for their patients. Restful sleep is not a side goal; it is a vital part of managing these conditions effectively.