Rosacea

Overview:

Rosacea (pronounced roh-ZAY-sha) is a common, chronic (long term) condition in which skin inflammation causes redness, pimples & swelling appear on the forehead, chin and cheeks (this area is commonly known as the T zone)

The cause of rosacea isn't known. An over growth of the stomach bacteria H. Pylori (which is responsible for stomach ulcers), and sensitivity to the skin mite Demodex folliculorum mite have both been suggested as causes. Although not causes in themselves, it appears to be triggered by various stimuli such as environmental (sun exposure, hot or cold weather, wind), stress, exercise, alcohol, hot drinks, topical irritants, hot baths and certain foods.

Light skinned women are more commonly affected than men & it tends to occur in people between the ages of 30 – 50.

There are several subtypes of rosacea;

• Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea; flushing & reddening of the affected areas.

• Papulopustular rosacea; flushing & reddening with pustules of the affected area.

• Phymatous rosacea; thickening and enlargement of the skin & affected areas (typically the nose).

• Ocular rosacea; redness & watering of the eyes.

Rosacea symptoms:

Early symptoms of rosacea are flushing of the face which becomes more & more frequent. Eventually it progresses to the following;

• Inflamed, red skin, the nose, cheeks & forehead are most commonly affected.

• Dilated (enlarged) capillaries on the skin (telangiectasia).

• Stinging/burning sensation.

• Greasy skin appearance.

• Hard, pimple like bumps and pustules.

• Facial swelling.

• Reddened, bulbous nose (rhinophyma). This is the result of enlarged sebaceous glands & granuloma. Men are most commonly affected. It was once believed that heavy drinking lead to what is commonly referred to as "drinkers nose", this is not the case, although alcohol does aggravate the condition.

• The eyes can also be affected, causing redness and watering. This is known as ocular rosacea.

Rosacea treatment:

There is no cure for rosacea. Avoidance of  known triggers such as alcohol, spicy foods etc., is the first course of action and may be all that is required in mild cases. Other treatments may include;

• Oral antibiotics such as tetracycline or topical antibiotics such as metronidazole to reduce inflammation.

• Laser treatment to treat broken capillaries.

• CO2 lasers to remove excess tissue on the nose.

• Protect yourself from sun exposure. Wear sun creams & a wide rimmed hat.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.