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The coronavirus pandemic added stress for all of us and still has medical implications, which deserve careful support
We should initially point out that our clinic is offering complete treatment to children. Lessons learned from the initial waves of coronavirus prove how important this is, to prevent more damage that the virus might cause.
Society has also moved on, to what the government describe as living with coronavirus. This does not mean ignoring the virus and medical facilities have retained changes.
Infection control continues to be given priority, patients are asked to wear a mask and sanitise their hands, staff are more likely to be wearing PPE. Vulnerable patients in particular are given the support they need.
This can range from varying practice entrance arrangements, to using teledermatology. Face to face appointments are however well managed and available to all.
At a time when dermatologists in general, especially experienced paediatric dermatologists are in short supply, we are pleased to offer care. The need to support children with specialist diagnosis and treatment is clear.
Growing Demand
The increasing incidence of skin disorders and skin cancer over recent years applies to children as well as adults. Most cases will be for natural reasons, although there can be issues related to coronavirus.
Children may not show standard symptoms, such as respiratory impairment, or a fever, yet can still suffer skin conditions. This is uncommon but chilblain like eruptions, rashes, lesions, or more serious inflammatory conditions have been seen.
Even where adults near them have been infected, children may not be tested, or have been known to test negative when skin conditions suggest otherwise. Accurate diagnosis to differentiate possible causes is important.
This shouldn’t bring too much concern, children generally have milder coronavirus symptoms and critical care cases are rare. Finding the normal, or unusual cause of problems and treating them still matters, as do other pandemic links.
Additional Factors
Researchers surveyed 70,000 university students during the pandemic and showed how much stress they were under, with 40% reporting at least one mental health issue. Anxiety amongst school age children was also significant.
Increased isolation played a part, along with the general environment. This has changed but not everyone is relaxed about the situation and habits formed can remain.
Flare ups of skin conditions are still possible, from stress, or too much time spent on games consoles, or computers. Support networks have not always reverted to previous times, a degree of isolation persists for some.
Proven Facilities
Procedural changes we have made do not restrict treatment, support at our clinic is largely undiminished. Appointments will be with an experienced consultant dermatologist and a full range of diagnostics is available.
A scientific yet natural approach works well for young patients. Confidence in their care is important and helps to ensure the early intervention which is so vital for a range of children’s skin conditions, even during the pandemic.
If we can offer any advice on paediatric dermatology, or arrange for a consultation, please contact our team at any time.