The chronic skin condition rosacea affects about 14 million Americans, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. People with fair skin and women tend to get rosacea more often than others. The disease mainly strikes people between 30 to 60 years old.
Description
Rosacea affects the skin of the face, starting out as a mild blush that soon develops into a persistent redness on the nose and cheeks, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Spider veins and small red bumps--which may or may not be filled with pus--then form on the face, and the facial skin sometimes swells. Some people afflicted with rosacea may also develop rhinophyma, a condition in which the nose becomes large and bulbous, the cheeks become puffy and thick bumps grow on the nose and cheeks. About half of rosacea sufferers also experience rosacea of the eyes, characterized by dryness and inflammation. Rosacea is a lifelong condition that may be continual or may come and go.
Causes
The cause of rosacea is unknown, but some risk factors have been identified. People who blush frequently are more prone to developing rosacea. Some researchers speculate that the cause of rosacea may be a tendency of the blood vessels to dilate too easily or that it may be related to other skin disorders, such as acne vulgaris. There may also be a genetic factor, as rosacea tends to run in families. Some people find that certain things such as heat, wind, stress or certain foods act as trigger to an episode of rosacea, but the triggers are different in different people.
Treatment
Treatment for rosacea attempts to improve the condition of the skin and get rid of the offending bumps and redness. According to the Mayo Clinic, topical medications containing benzoyl peroxide, metronidazole, tretinoin or azelaic acid are frequently used to reduce redness and inflammation. Oral medications may also be used, including antibiotics and isotretinoin, which goes under the brand name Accutane. Laser surgery or electrosurgery may be useful if redness is particularly severe, or if the person develops rhinophyma.
Home Care
Because sun exposure is often a trigger for rosacea flare-ups, practicing proper sun protection using sunscreen and protective clothing is a good idea for rosacea sufferers. Avoiding other known triggers such as specific foods or environmental conditions may also help prevent episodes of rosacea. People with rosacea should also be careful to avoid harsh soaps, chemicals or cosmetics and should be gentle when washing the face.
Complications
When rosacea spreads to the eyes, it can lead to permanent eye damage. This can include blurred vision or sensitivity to light, says the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. People with rosacea, especially those who develop rhinophyma, may become self-conscious about their appearance. Some people become clinically depressed or incur psychological damage related to their appearance.
