Rosacea (Acne Rosacea)
Definition
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition involving inflammation of the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead, or eyelids. It may appear as redness, prominent spider-like blood vessels, swelling, or skin eruptions similar to acne.
Rosacea is most common in white women between the ages of 30 to 50. But male also has the opportunity to suffer from the disease.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Although the cause of rosacea is unknown, you are more likely to develop this harmless skin condition if:
- You are fair skinned
- You blush easily
- You are a woman. However, men are usually more severely affected
- You are between the ages of 30 to 50
- Rosacea involves enlargement of the blood vessels just under the skin and may be associated with other skin disorders (Acne Vulgaris, Seborrhea) or eye disorders (Blepharitis, Keratitis).
Symptoms
- Redness of the face in discrete areas or covering the entire face
- A tendency to flush or blush easily
- Increased vascularity (spider-like blood vessels called telangiectasia) of the face
- A red, bulbous nose
- Acne-like skin eruptions (may ooze or crust)
- A burning or stinging sensation of the face
Treatment
There is no known cure for rosacea. The goal is to identify and avoid possible triggers, and thus reduce flare-ups.
Here are some steps that may help:
- Avoid sun exposure. Use sunscreen every day |
Oral antibiotics (such as Tetracycline, Minocycline, or Doxycycline) or topical antibiotics (like Metronidazole) applied to your face may control skin eruptions. Other medications (Isoretinol or Accutane), which are similar to Vitamin A, are stronger alternatives that one might consider.
Expectations (prognosis)
Rosacea is not curable, but can usually be controlled with treatment. It may be persistent and chronic.
Complications
Permanent changes in appearance (for example, a Bulbous Nose)