Rosacea: An Irritating Skin Condition that Causes Red Splotches and Bumps on the Face
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects over 14 million people worldwide and often exhibits itself in the form of red blotches typically found on the face and around the nose and mouth. The cause of Rosacea varies and can range from such triggers as stress, caffeine, and excess heat. The symptoms and severity of this skin condition can also fluctuate from person to person and will sometimes appear and disappear without obvious reason. In fact, many people regularly suffer from this condition without realizing that it’s a treatable disorder.
Causes of Rosacea
While many different factors come into play when determining the causes of Rosacea, medical experts have narrowed the field down to a few regular culprits:
1. Genetics
Rosacea is known to favor genetic strains, often affecting people of Celtic and Scandinavian ancestry. It also seems to run in families, giving credence to the possibility of heredity playing a part in the skin disorder.
2. Blood Vessel Issues
This condition can be spurred by changes to the blood vessels found in your skin.
3. Mites
Studies show that Demodex, a microscopic mite that lives on everyone’s skin, may have a solid hand in causing the onset of Rosacea symptoms.
4. Bacteria
The presence of a type of bacteria, H pylori, is commonly found in the intestines of patients that suffer from Rosacea. An overgrowth of this bacteria is thought to be a possible trigger for the condition.
Common Symptoms
- Stinging and burning of the skin
- Swollen, bulbous skin around the nose
- Enlarged pores
- Broken blood vessels around the eyes and nose
- Bumps along eyelids
- Issues with swollen, itchy eyes.
- Patches of rough, dry skin
Different Types of Rosacea and their Associated Symptoms
There are several different forms of Rosacea, typically grouped into four categories:
1. Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea
This type is associated with causing blushing of the face, followed by burning or stinging. Patients suffering from this condition often have finer skin textures, and it can be triggered by emotional stress, hot drinks, alcohol, exercise, and harsh weather.
2. Papulopustular Rosacea
This form of Rosacea commonly presents with small, inflamed bumps and pustules on the forehead, cheek, nose, and chin. Symptoms of this condition are similar to standard Rosacea; however, this form is combined with symptoms of acne, causing pus-filled whiteheads to appear along the forehead and chin.
3. Phymatous Rosacea
Symptoms of this condition appear as growths of excess skin tissue along the lower third of the nose, often causing disfigurement and breathing difficulties due to obstructions of the nasal passageway.
4. Ocular Rosacea
Ocular Rosacea is marked by inflammation that causes redness, burning, and itching of the eyes. This variant primarily affects adults, typically appearing in patients already suffering from Rosacea on other regions of their face.
Diagnosing Rosacea
While there is no specific test to diagnose Rosacea, determining whether you suffer from the condition can be accomplished via a thorough examination by a medical doctor. During your exam, you will want to fill your doctor in on all the symptoms you may be experiencing. If your symptoms involve the eyes, your medical professional may recommend a referral to an Ophthalmologist.
Treating Rosacea
There is no known cure for Rosacea, but seeking proper treatment can mitigate some redness and irritation. Treatments typically include either the use of topical or oral antibiotics. Still, there are plenty of other techniques that have been known to provide relief to those suffering from the condition.
1. Laser Treatment
Treatment with intense light can target enlarged blood vessels, reducing the severity of inflammation.
2. Gel-Based Treatments
Prescription medications like Brimonidine (Mirvaso), or Azelaic acid, can reduce redness and relieve symptoms of Rosacea by constricting blood vessels in the face.
3. Oral Medications and Antibiotics
Doctors may prescribe antibiotics like Doxycycline that are ingested orally to relieve the symptoms of Rosacea.
4. Acne Drugs
Many acne medications, like Isotretinoin, can help clear up acne and bumps caused by Rosacea.
It is important to note that patients suffering from any skin condition should consult with a medical doctor before using medications.
DIY Tips for Reducing Rosacea Symptoms
There are many options when it comes to home remedies that minimize the effects of Rosacea. Knowing potential triggers may have a tremendous effect on how often your symptoms appear. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most common triggers to avoid:
1. Using Sunscreen
Using SPF-appropriate sunscreen can mitigate symptoms triggered by UV light exposure. Even if you don’t suffer from a skin condition, use plenty of sunscreen!
2. Hot and Cold Temperatures
Harsh temperatures can exacerbate symptoms of Rosacea, so avoiding extreme climates can do wonders to curtail the condition.
3. Wind
Much like temperature, irritations caused by wind can exacerbate your Rosacea symptoms. Stay out of prolonged heavy winds to mitigate your symptoms.
4. Hot Baths
Hot water temperatures can cause a spike in symptoms. Using lukewarm water is an effective way to combat this trigger.
5. Stress
Many of Rosacea’s symptoms are known to be spurred by emotional or psychological stress. Taking steps to minimize these stressors will reduce your overall redness and irritation.
6. Hot and Spicy Foods or Drinks
Ingesting hot drinks like tea or coffee and spicy foods can significantly affect your Rosacea issues. Refraining from these particular food types can help ease your condition.
7. Alcohol
The consumption of alcohol can affect Rosacea by increasing the production of inflammatory cytokines, cell-signaling molecules, and the widening of blood vessels.
8. Exercise
We all have to exercise, but minimizing your physical activity can reduce inflammation and redness caused by Rosacea.
9. Prescription Medications
Certain medications, like blood pressure regulators and topical steroids, can cause intense outbreaks of Rosacea. Consult with your doctor for the appropriate treatment plan.
Proper Diet to Minimize Rosacea Effects
There are many steps you can take to reduce the effects of Rosacea, and among these, diet is first and foremost in terms of importance. Your diet can have a wild influence on the presence of symptoms. Some of these may include:
- Foods heavy with Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Zinc Sulfate
- Foods rich in Vitamins A and E
- Antioxidants
- Vegetables featuring a high water content
- Non-acidic fruits
- Salmon
- Foods containing Cardamom, Saffron, Turmeric, and Coriander
Winston Salem Dermatology Has the Answers
Winston Salem Dermatology Specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Rosacea, with years of experience in dermatologic services. Our experts are dedicated to helping you find the proper care for your specific condition, regardless of what skin issue you may have.
We are also experts in treating other common skin conditions like acne, cysts, eczema, and psoriasis. Additionally, we offer numerous cosmetic services, including laser hair removal and IPL therapies.
Take charge of your skin’s health and fight back against skin issues that dictate your life! Give us a call today at +1 (336) 774-8636 and let our knowledgeable representatives assist in reclaiming your youthful, radiant skin!