Information About Rosacea
Rosacea is a disease that affects the skin and, in some cases, the eyes. Its symptoms include redness and pimples. In later stages, the skin of the affected areas can become thicker. Typically, rosacea only affects the face although it is possible for it to be present in other areas.
Who Is At Risk For Rosacea?
Over 14 million people in the United States are affected by rosacea. Rosacea is most prevalent in:
- Women (particularly during menopause)
- People with fair, light skin
- Adults between the ages of 30 and 60.
What Are The Symptoms of Rosacea?
Rosacea has many symptoms, including:
- Frequent redness of localized areas of the face. Most redness occurs on the forehead, nose, chin and cheeks. There may also be a burning sensation and slight swelling.
- Enlarged blood vessels under the skin. This area of the skin may be more swollen, warm, and red.
- Persistent redness and bumps on the skin. Often the bumps (pimples) may have pus inside, but not always. Solid bumps on the skin may later become painful.
- Inflamed eyes/eyelids.
- A swollen nose. In some individuals, mostly men, the nose becomes red, larger, and bumpy.
- Thickening skin. The skin on the forehead, cheeks, chin, or other affected areas may become thicker because of rosacea.
Are The Eyes Affected By Rosacea?
Nearly 50% of people with rosacea have eye problems. Eyes may be red, dry, itchy, burn, and the feel irritated. The eyelids often become inflamed and swollen. The eyes may develop light sensitivity, and blurred vision or other vision problems may result.
What Are The Causes Of Rosacea?
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown. Some doctors believe rosacea occurs when blood vessels expand too easily, causing flushing. Those who blush a lot may be more likely to develop rosacea. It is also believed that rosacea may be genetic.
Those with rosacea often say that one or more of these factors trigger rosacea:
- Exposure to heat (including hot baths)
- Moderate to heavy exercise
- Sunlight
- Wind
- Very cold temperatures
- Hot or spicy foods and drinks
- Drinking alcohol
- Menopause
- Emotional stress
- Use of steroids on the face.
People with rosacea and pimples may believe the pimples are caused by bacteria. But there is no clear link between rosacea and bacteria.
What Can People With Rosacea Do?
Here are a few steps to take:
- Maintain a journal of when rosacea flare ups occur. This may give you clues about what triggers your rosacea.
- Use a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Make sure it has a SPF of 15 or higher.
- Use a lubricant if it helps. Don’t use irritating products on the face.
- If your rosacea causes eyes problems, follow your doctor’s treatment plan
- Speak with a doctor or seek counseling if you feel sad or have other signs of depression. Many people with rosacea become depressed because of the way their appearance.
For information on Rosacea in Spanish, please see ¿Qué es la rosácea?
