Rosacea is a chronic skin condition and one that is thought to be becoming more prevalent. According to NHS Choices, "rosacea is a relapsing condition" which means that there will be periods of severe exacerbation and periods of the condition being less extreme.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition which has sometimes been referred to as "adult acne" because of the appearance of pimples and red spots on the face. It is a condition that can be easily exacerbated by exercise, hot or spicy food, and stress. The development and severity of symptoms can vary tremendously from person to person.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Rosacea?
- Red flushed cheeks
- Pimples on the cheeks, forehead or nose
- Dry eyes that may feel sore and irritated
- Visible "spidery" veins across the nose and cheeks
- A tendency for the skin to sting and burn
- A thickened appearance to the skin
How is Rosacea Diagnosed?
Rosacea is diagnosed by examining the face and eyes. This is often carried out by a family doctor or sometimes after referral to a dermatologist. Blood tests may sometimes be conducted to eliminate other possible illnesses.
What is the Treatment for Rosacea?
The main treatment for rosacea is antibiotic therapy – a daily dose of lymecycline, for example. Use of emollients and sunscreen creams may also be recommended as a daily skin repair routine. It is worth noting that there is no actual cure at present for rosacea. However, sufferers can learn to cope with the condition and minimise flare-ups by identification and avoidance of specific triggers.
Who is Most at Risk of Developing Rosacea?
It is not known what causes rosacea, but it is more prevalent in individuals with fair skin, fair hair and blue eyes. Women are slightly more at risk, especially those between 30 and 50 years of age. Rosacea also appears to run in families, which may mean that people inherit genes for rosacea.
How Else Does Rosacea Affect People?
Rosacea can cause people to feel embarrassed and self-conscious about their appearance. Because the condition is little known, it is often misunderstood and can seriously affect the individual's quality of life. According to a survey by the National Rosacea Society, "nearly 70 percent of rosacea patients said this condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem, and 41 percent reported it had caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements".
Rosacea is a chronic condition that will hopefully soon receive a scientific breakthrough in the understanding of its cause.
Sources
- Kumar, P and Clark, M (1998) Clinical Medicine. Fourth Edition. London: Harcourt Brace and Company Limited.
- National Rosacea Society. Information retrieved 12th April 2011
- Rosacea: NHS Choices. Information retrieved 12th April 2011.
- Weller, B.F. (1999) Baillière’s Nurses’ Dictionary. Twenty Second Edition. London: Bailliére Tindall
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Linda Smallwood - Hi my name is Linda Smallwood. I am married with two sons aged 13 and 11 and live in North Wales. After 18 years working for The ...
