Plaque psoriasis is a skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Patches of red, scaly, and itchy skin distinguish it. Plaque psoriasis can cause significant discomfort and interfere with everyday activities. Left untreated, it can become more severe, causing additional skin problems such as cracking and bleeding. This article will provide an overview of plaque psoriasis’s causes and treatment options to help one better understand and manage the condition.

What it is
Plaque psoriasis is a chronic, long-term skin condition that typically appears as raised or pink patches with silvery scales. It usually develops on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, face, and feet and can be itchy and painful. Plaque psoriasis refers to an intense immune system response in which the body sends frail signals that accelerate the growth cycle of skin cells. This causes new skin cells to form too quickly, resulting in a buildup of plaques on the skin’s surface.

What causes it
While the exact cause of the condition is not yet known, researchers reveal that a combination of genetic and other factors, such as environmental factors, may contribute to its development. Let’s take a closer look at some of the causes of plaque psoriasis:

• Genetics: Individuals with a family history of psoriasis are more likely to develop plaque psoriasis than those without. It is estimated that up to 30% of people with psoriasis have a family member with the condition.
• Immune system: In people with plaque psoriasis, the immune system is triggered to attack healthy skin cells, causing an overproduction of skin cells and the formation of plaques.
• Triggers: Certain environmental triggers such as stress, injury to the skin, infections, and medication can exacerbate the symptoms of plaque psoriasis.
• Vitamin D deficiency: Studies suggest that individuals with psoriasis may have low vitamin D levels, which are essential to skin health.

Symptoms of plaque psoriasis
If one suspects that they might have plaque psoriasis, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms that come along with it. The following are the symptoms of plaque psoriasis for which one should watch out:

• Red, raised, and scaly patches of skin: These patches can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most common on the knees, elbows, scalp, and lower back.
• Dry and cracked skin: The patches can become dry, which can cause cracking, bleeding, and pain.
• Itching and burning sensation: The affected areas can be itchy, making it hard to sleep at night.

Diagnosis of plaque psoriasis
If a patient experiences persistent skin inflammation, flaky skin, and itchiness, they may want to visit a dermatologist to determine whether they have plaque psoriasis. Here are the common ways doctors diagnose plaque psoriasis:

• Visual inspection: The dermatologist will look for raised red patches covered in silvery scales and any inflammation, dryness, or bleeding.
• Medical history: The doctor may ask questions about one’s medical history, supplements, and lifestyle to determine the potential causes of plaque psoriasis.
• Skin biopsy: If the visual inspection is inconclusive, the dermatologist may take a small skin sample and examine it under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis of plaque psoriasis.
• Blood test: This can help identify any underlying health issues contributing to plaque psoriasis, such as a weakened immune system or vitamin deficiencies.
• Allergy test: The dermatologist may conduct an allergy test to determine if an allergic reaction to a certain substance triggers psoriasis.

Once a diagnosis of plaque psoriasis is confirmed, the dermatologist can work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment

If one has been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis, they shouldn’t worry; many treatment options are available to manage the symptoms and keep the skin healthy. Let’s take a look at some of the common treatments for plaque psoriasis:

• Topical treatment: These are the most common for plaque psoriasis, including creams, ointments, and lotions applied directly to the affected area. These treatment methods can help reduce and limit the rate of inflammation, redness, and scaling.
• Phototherapy: Phototherapy is a light therapy that uses ultraviolet light to treat psoriasis.

Working closely with a doctor to find the best treatment plan for a specific case of plaque psoriasis is essential. Finding the right combination of treatments that work for one may take some trial and error, but with patience and perseverance, it is possible to manage one’s symptoms and live a full, active life.