Around eight million people in our country suffer from a skin condition called psoriasis. There are many types of psoriasis, but plaque psoriasis is the most prevalent. Plaques are dry patches covered by scales—a whitish buildup of dead skin cells. They can appear anywhere but most commonly affect the head, lower back, elbows, and knees and frequently sting or irritate. Read on to learn more about the condition’s symptoms, causes, and management options.

Signs
The common signs and symptoms of plaque psoriasis are:

• A patchy rash resembling tiny spots of dandruff-like scaling or significant eruptions over a large portion of the body
• Rashes varying in color
• Tiny, scaly spots (often seen in children)
• Dry skin that may crack and bleed
• Soreness, scorching, or itching
• Rashes that cycle in and out for a few weeks or months

Causes
Experts are uncertain about what causes plaque psoriasis, and many regard it as an inflammatory condition. It appears that psoriasis runs in families. One in three patients reports that they have a relative with psoriasis. Moreover, one in ten individuals is born with genes that increase their risk of psoriasis.

Besides faulty genes, an unnecessary immune system response can cause the condition. A cutaneous injury, severe sunburn, or specific treatments could trigger this response.

Treatments
While there is no cure for this condition, treatments and remedies help reduce the severity of its symptoms and the frequency of flare-ups. Doctors may recommend one or a combination of these plaque psoriasis treatments:

Creams and lotions
If a person has only a few lesions, the doctor will likely recommend a cream with ingredients like salicylic acid and coal tar. It may be applied straight to the skin to relieve itching and reduce swelling.

Light therapy
Experts might use this treatment if the rash is more severe or spread. Light therapy exposes the affected skin to ultraviolet light, reducing inflammation and slowing skin cell production.

Besides the above, healthcare experts may recommend other treatments to slow down the growth of epidermis cells or regulate an overactive immune system.

Foods to eat
Patients may follow a meal plan rich in anti-inflammatory foods that help manage plaque psoriasis better. Suitable options are:

Veggies and fruits
Fruits and veggies are a staple in almost all anti-inflammatory nutrition plans as they have antioxidants that lessen oxidative stress and inflammation. Patients may choose veggies like kale, collard greens, and broccoli and fruits like apples and berries.

Fatty fish
Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and trout can give the body a boost of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 has been associated with a reduction in general inflammation in the body.

Besides using the right treatment and eating healthy foods, patients may follow home remedies for better plaque psoriasis management, such as applying apple cider vinegar on the skin, having an oatmeal bath, and meditating. Individuals may also consider avoiding sun exposure and covering the affected region when going outside. One should consult an expert if they feel emotionally drained or speak to someone who can relate to their situation.