Rosacea is
a common condition characterized by flushing
and redness in the central face area.
•
As rosacea
progresses, other symptoms can develop such
as permanent redness, red bumps (some with
pus), red gritty eyes, burning and stinging,
small blood vessels visible near the surface
of the skin and, in some men, a bulbous nose.
•
Rosacea
affects both men and women and occurs in all
races, but most often in lighter-skinned individuals.
•
Triggers
that cause episodes of flushing and blushing
play a part in the development of rosacea such
as exposure to temperature extremes, strenuous
exercise, heat from sunlight, severe sunburn,
stress, cold wind, moving to a warm or hot
environment from a cold one.
•
There are also some
foods and drinks that can trigger flushing,
these include alcohol, foods high in histamine
and spicy food.
•
Most experts believe
that rosacea is a disorder where the blood
vessels become damaged when repeatedly dilated
by stimuli. Immune cells and inflammatory
mediators can leak from the vessels.
•
There are four identified
rosacea subtypes (which may overlap in the
same person). Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea
is characterized by permanent redness with
a tendency to flush and blush easily, small
blood vessels visible near the surface of
the skin, and burning or itching sensations
including sensitivity to many topical products.
•
Papulopustular rosacea
is characterized by permanent redness with
red bumps and pustules, all lesions that are
easily confused with acne. Phymatous rosacea
is usually characterized by sebaceous gland
enlargement on the nose.
•
Phyma can also occur
on the chin, forehead, cheeks, and ears. Small
blood vessels visible near the surface of
the skin may also be present.
•
Ocular rosacea is characterized
by red, dry and irritated eyes and eyelids,
as well as foreign body sensations, itching
and burning of the eyes. The treatment of
rosacea is varied and depends upon the specific
symptoms of each individual.
