Rosacea
Rosacea is a common, chronic, incurable, adult acne-like skin condition that is easily controllable and medically manageable. Rosacea commonly affects the central third of the face, especially the nose, and has periodic ups and downs (flares and remissions). Rosacea symptoms and signs include redness of the face (easy facial blushing or flushing), tiny red pimples and fine red lines (telangiectasias) on the facial skin, rhinophyma (an enlarged, bulbous red nose, like W.C. Fields), and eye problems, such as swollen, red eyelids,conjunctivitis, and rosacea keratitis.
Rosacea (ro-zay-sha) is a common, acne-like benign skin condition of adults, with a worldwide distribution. Rosacea is estimated to affect at least 16 million people in the United States alone and approximately 45 million worldwide. Most people with rosacea are Caucasian and have fair skin.
The main symptoms and signs of rosacea include red or pink facial skin, small dilated blood vessels, small red bumps sometimes containing pus, cysts, and pink or irritated eyes. Many people who have rosacea may just assume they have very sensitive skin that blushes or flushes easily.
Rosacea is considered an incurable auto-inflammatory skin condition with periodic ups and downs. As opposed to traditional or teenage acne, most adult patients do not “outgrow” rosacea. Rosacea characteristically involves the central region of the face, mainly the forehead, cheeks, chin, and the lower half of the nose. It is most commonly seen in people with light skin and particularly in those of English, Irish, and Scottish backgrounds. Some famous people with rosacea include the former U.S. President Bill Clinton and W.C. Fields. Rosacea is not directly caused by alcohol intake, but it is presumed to aggravated by it. Rosacea is not considered contagious or infectious.
- Rosacea may be mistaken for rosy cheeks,sunburn, or quite often, acne.
- Rosacea triggers include alcohol, hot or spicy foods, emotional stress, and heat.
- Rosacea can be a very bothersome and embarrassing condition.
- Untreated rosacea tends to worsen over time.
- Prompt recognition and proper treatment permit people with rosacea to enjoy life.
