Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that causes redness, pimples, and thickened skin, mostly on the face, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. It is most common in adults over 30. Other symptoms include blushing, a burning or sandy feeling in the eye, visible blood vessels on the nose and cheeks, and a red and enlarged nose. Rosacea can come and go, but over time, it tends to get worse if it's not treated. There is no cure for the disease, but treatments can reduce the symptoms.
Genetics and Environment
Researchers have not pinpointed the exact cause of rosacea, according to MayoClinic.com. But there may be a genetic component and some environmental factors may also be at play. Some researchers think it is caused by blood vessels in the skin that dilate too easily, according to NIAMS. One theory is that increased blood flow to the skin causes a buildup of fluid in the tissue that accumulates faster than the body can remove it, according to the National Rosacea Society. Other theories point to the involvement of the nervous system and a common microscopic skin mite.
Causes of Flare-Ups
Researchers do know that a number of factors can make rosacea worse by stimulating blood flow to the skin's surface, according to MayoClinic.com. These factors include hot or spicy food and drinks, alcohol, extreme hot or cold, wind, sunlight, stress, anger or embarrassment, hard exercise, hot baths or saunas, corticosteroids, and any drug that dilates blood vessels such as certain blood pressure medications.
Risk Factors
Anyone can get rosacea, but some people are more prone to it, according to MayoClinic.com. People with a family history of the disease are more likely to get it, as are those who flush or blush easily. People with fair skin have a greater risk of rosacea. Menopausal women are more likely to develop rosacea, and so are women in general. The condition is most likely to strike between the ages of 30 and 60.
