Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease, meaning inflammation plays a key role in its development. While its exact cause remains unknown, psoriasis affects up to 3% of adults in the United States. It primarily leads to skin symptoms such as raised plaques and discoloration but can also impact other areas, including the joints and eyes.What Causes Inflammation in Psoriasis?In individuals with psoriasis, the immune system malfunctions, causing inflammatory cells to accumulate in the dermis, the middle layer of the skin. This dysfunction also speeds up skin cell production in the outer layer (epidermis).Normally, skin cells take about a month to grow and shed, but in psoriasis, this process occurs in just a few days. Instead of shedding, the excess skin cells build up, resulting in symptoms such as plaques, scaling, redness or discoloration, and swelling.However, psoriasis is not just a skin condition. The inflammation it causes can affect the entire body, increasing the risk of other health issues like heart disease, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriatic arthritis.Can Inflammation Be Treated?Since inflammation in psoriasis is linked to immune system dysfunction, treatments aim to reduce this inflammation. Research suggests that lifestyle and dietary changes can help minimize symptoms and improve overall well-being.Many people with psoriasis can maintain remission—periods without symptoms—by adopting these changes. In addition, medical treatments such as topical corticosteroids, injectable biologics, and oral medications work to control inflammation. The severity of psoriasis varies from person to person, so treatment needs differ accordingly.Managing Inflammation in PsoriasisWhile there is no cure for psoriasis, the following lifestyle habits may help reduce inflammation and improve symptom control.Eating a Nutritious DietDiet is closely linked to inflammation. Certain dietary patterns can worsen psoriasis, while others can alleviate symptoms.Avoid inflammatory foods: Processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive salt or unhealthy fats may trigger psoriasis symptoms.Follow an anti-inflammatory diet: Research suggests that a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can reduce psoriasis severity.Maintaining a Healthy WeightObesity is a risk factor for psoriasis, and excess weight can worsen symptoms. Studies indicate that weight loss can reduce inflammatory markers and improve psoriasis severity. For instance, a 2020 study found that losing 12% of body weight over 10 weeks led to a 50–75% reduction in psoriasis symptoms.Adopting Healthy Lifestyle HabitsSeveral habits can help lower inflammation and manage psoriasis symptoms:Quit smoking: Smoking worsens inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis.Limit alcohol intake: Excessive drinking contributes to inflammation and symptom severity.Stay active: Regular movement helps reduce psoriasis severity. Sedentary lifestyles are linked to worse symptoms.Get enough sleep: Poor sleep increases inflammation. Experts recommend 7–9 hours of sleep per night for optimal health.Manage stress: Stress is a common psoriasis trigger. Practices like meditation and yoga can help reduce stress levels and inflammation.When to Seek Medical Help?If you experience a psoriasis flare-up and want to manage inflammation, consulting a healthcare provider, particularly a dermatologist, is essential. They can recommend appropriate treatments, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to help reduce symptoms. Additionally, they may suggest vitamins or supplements that could support your overall health.While psoriasis is a lifelong condition, proactive management can lead to improved quality of life and extended periods of remission.