Rosacea is a common condition that affects the skin of the face. It is most commonly diagnosed in fair-skinned middle-aged women, but it also affects men and people of any age or skin tone. Because rosacea symptoms can resemble acne, an allergic reaction, or lupus, it can sometimes be difficult to diagnosis.
Telltale Signs of Rosacea
- Facial redness – Facial redness is the most common telltale sign of rosacea. The red coloration usually is found in the central part of the face. In addition to a diffuse redness, small veins may become more visible.
- Swollen red bumps – Not all people get swollen red bumps, but many do. These resemble acne pimples. The skin may feel hot and swollen.
- Eye symptoms – Many affected people also experience eye symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and swollen eyelids. In some patients, eye symptoms may occur before they begin to develop the characteristic facial redness.
- Thickened, bulbous nose – This symptom is less common and is more likely to affect men. The tip of the nose thickens and enlarges and becomes bulbous.
- It comes and goes – This is a key telltale sign of rosacea; the symptoms tend to wax and wane over time. Symptoms may completely resolve and then suddenly flare up again for a few months before resolving again.
What Causes It?
Affected individuals inherit a predisposition to the condition and environmental triggers induce outbreaks. Known environmental triggers include stress, extreme heat or cold irritating the skin, sunlight or wind irritating the skin, and anything that dilates blood vessels (spicy foods, hot drinks, alcohol, exercise, certain medications). There is also an established link between smoking and the development of rosacea.
Treatment
Mild cases of rosacea can usually be managed by identifying and avoiding triggers. In addition, patients may find that antibiotics can shorten outbreaks, and there are topical agents available that reduce the redness associated with rosacea. Lasers can be used to reduce the appearance of visible veins.
Get In Touch with Us for More Information
If you or a loved one seems to have some of the telltale signs of rosacea, please feel free to reach out and make an appointment with the office of Dr. Ingrid E. Trenkle. At our convenient locations in Redlands and Sun City, our caring and devoted team of professionals will be pleased to explain this condition in full and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to set up your consultation – we look forward to speaking with you!
