Although rosacea affects millions of Americans, most don’t even know they have this skin disorder. If left untreated, it can become worse with time. In many people, it is cyclic, flaring up from time to time. Rosacea is often mistaken for other skin problems, such as acne or eczema.
Definition
Rosacea is a chronic inflammation of the skin, primarily of the face, for which there is no cure. About 14 million Americans have rosacea, most of whom are between the ages of 30 and 60, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Scientists do not know the exact cause of the disease, although the tendency to develop rosacea seems to be inherited. Women, particularly of menopause age, those who blush easily and those with fair skin seem to be more predisposed to develop rosacea.
Symptoms
Rosacea often begins as a tendency to become flushed, but as time goes on the facial redness becomes permanent, spreading from the nose and cheeks to the forehead and chin. Rosacea can even spread to the ears, chest and back. The tiny blood vessels beneath the skin become prominent, contributing to a chronically red face. Small pus-filled bumps resembling acne can also appear, and the skin may swell. In more severe cases, a condition called rhinophyma can develop, making the tissue of the nose and cheeks enlarged and puffy. The eyes may become irritated from rosacea, causing them to burn and feel dry and gritty.
Types
Medical experts from the National Rosacea Society say there are four different subtypes of rosacea. In subtype 1, erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, you may experience flushing and redness, as well as visible blood vessels. In subtype 2, papulopustular rosacea, you will notice occasional bumps and pimples in addition to redness. In subtype 3, phymatous rosacea, the affected skin becomes thickened, and the nose may become enlarged because of the excess tissue. Subtype 4, ocular rosacea, affects a person’s eyes, and can cause dryness, tearing and burning, swelling of the eyelids, styes and even vision loss as the result of corneal damage.
Treatment
Dermatologists can prescribe creams, gels and lotions for direct application to the skin. Using products with ingredients such as topical antibiotics, metronidazole, sulfacetamide, benzoyl peroxide or retinoids can help to arrest or sometimes even reverse the symptoms of rosacea. Topical products require several weeks to work before improvement is seen. Doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics for patients with pustules. Laser surgery and dermabrasion can help with the most severe symptoms. Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential for rosacea patients, since sun exposure can trigger inflammation, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Triggers
Rosacea patients can increase their chances of keeping their rosacea under control by avoiding the factors that trigger flare-ups, according to the National Rosacea Society. Environmental triggers to avoid include sun exposure, very hot or very cold weather, wind and indoor heat. Lifestyle factors that can cause flare-ups include emotional stress, heavy exercise or hot baths. Food and beverage culprits include alcohol, spicy foods and hot beverages.
