Rosacea


Rosacea is a skin condition where the facial skin is ruddy or flushed. The face's redness is sometimes accompanied by red bumps and pimples, as well as tiny, thread-like blood vessels. The nose can become red and swollen, accompanied with or without stinging of the eyelid and eyes.

Rosacea or acne rosacea

Because of its similarity to acne, rosacea is also often called "acne rosacea" and is often misdiagnosed as adult acne. Unlike acne, however, rosacea is not caused by excess sebum or oil production which lead to plugged pores.

Symptoms of Rosacea

The symptoms of rosacea are:

  • Redness on the face
  • Tiny, thread-like blood vessels, called telangiectasias
  • Red and bumpy nose appearance, called rhinophyma
  • Irritated and red eyelids, often with gritty or stinging sensation in the eyes

Left untreated, rosacea gradually gets worse and can cause the skin to become thick and distorted.

Who Gets Rosacea?

This skin condition is progressive - meaning it gets worse with age. It affects most often in young and middle-age women with fair-skin, however it can also affect men. Indeed, rosacea is usually more severe in men.

What Causes It?

The exact cause of rosacea is not known.

Rosacea Treatment

Self-treatment includes avoiding things that contribute to skin redness, such as:

  • sun exposure
  • alcohol intake,
  • drinking hot beverages
  • eating spicy foods
  • excessive skin scrubbing

Reducing stress and avoiding extremely hot or cold temperatures may also.

Prescription medicine for rosacea include:

  • Oral antibiotics, such as tetracycline and erythromycin
  • Metronidazole gel or cream

Treatment for visible blood vessels or telangiectasias include using laser or electric current to destroy the vessels.






See also:
Rosacea Pictures
 


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