Rosacea is a condition that is often misdiagnosed and the causes of this condition are poorly understood. It manifests itself on the face, especially the cheeks, chin, nose and the center of the forehead. Although it is not a life-threatening condition, it can cause enormous social and psychological problems. Though it is considered incurable, using appropriate treatments can put a person in control of this debilitating condition.
Rosacea symptoms consist of telangiectasia, erythema papules and pustules and in some situations it may involve the eyes (ocular rosacea). The condition develops gradually. Mild episodes of facial flushing or flushing can lead to a permanently red face. Light-skinned individuals are more prone to Rosacea. But people with dark skin can also suffer from Rosacea. Rosacea is more common in women than men, and women often develop it earlier in life. However, the condition is generally more severe in males, with changes in skin texture, skin thickening and a bulbous enlarged nose (Rhinophyma).
Different types of rosacea
The 4 main types of rosacea:
Subtype 1:Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea This is mainly characterized by facial erythema (flushing and redness of the skin). The person usually experiences a burning sensation and often has flakes and changes in the texture of the skin.
Subtype 2:Papulopustular Rosacea Accompanied by the redness, the skin may produce papules or pustules or both usually in the center of the face. However, they can also occur around the nose and mouth. It may be difficult to identify this subtype as the papules or pustules may be hidden by the erythema.
Subtype 3:Phymatous Rosacea
In this subtype there is skin thickening and skin irregularities. One of the most common features is rhinophyma, which is often mistakenly referred to as "whiskey nose". Ironically, people who have Rhinophyma are often non-drinkers.
Subtype 4:Ocular Rosacea
The person with Ocular Rosacea will develop symptoms caused by telangiectasias of the conjunctiva and around the eyelids and edges of the eye. The condition can occur even before there are any symptoms on the skin.
What causes it:
The causes of rosacea are not clearly understood; there are several possibilities, but they are all unproven. There appear to be genetic and environmental factors involved in Rosacea. Often there is a history of family members with this condition. Some of the possibilities suggested include vascular irregularities, facial mites and bacteria, the use of steroids and other environmental factors. Hormonal imbalances in perimenopausal women may be a causative factor in vascular instability.
There are several triggers for rosacea attacks; these can be caused by certain foods, environmental factors such as excessive heat, common medications, or other medical conditions.
Treatment of rosacea
Unfortunately, there is no permanent solution for this annoying skin condition. There is no cure for Rosacea forever, but you can do something about it. For mild rosacea, there are a number of medicated creams that have an anti-inflammatory effect. Treatment with an IPL technology can improve the redness. Because the best treatment obviously depends on the severity of your complaints, it is always good to visit your doctor or dermatologist. You will receive tailor-made advice.
