What Might Cause Rosacea?
Sixteen million people in our country are living with rosacea, a skin condition that affects the cheeks, nose, and other highly visible parts of the face. What happens during rosacea flare ups is that the superficial blood vessels beneath the epidermis become dilated, causing intense redness. But there’s more. People with advancing rosacea (and there is no other kind) may also develop symptoms such as red, swollen bumps and “pimples” that resemble acne, with more severe symptoms causing broken blood vessels, bulbous appearance, and eye symptoms, including dryness, itchiness, burning sensation, blurry vision, and cysts on the eyelids.
Because rosacea is a chronic condition that will worsen without treatment, it is important that we talk about what may be causing it and what we can do to better manage the skin.
Who Could Develop Rosacea
While the causes of rosacea remain unknown, symptoms of rosacea can happen at any time. This chronic skin condition commonly affects people:
- With fair skin or features.
- Middle-aged to older adults between the ages of 30 and 50.
- With Family history of rosacea symptoms.
- With a history of acne or acne cysts.
If you have any of these traits or a family history of rosacea, we recommend scheduling an appointment with one of our board-certified-dermatologists to see if you could be at risk. There isn’t a known cure for this condition, but there are treatments and recommendations available to help manage and even reduce flare ups.
Understanding Rosacea
Understanding these key facts about rosacea can help you determine if it’s time to see a board-certified dermatologist for a personalized treatment plan to address the persistent symptoms of rosacea.
- There is no known cause of rosacea, though studies suggest that it could be related to a person’s immune system, a protein found on a person’s skin that protects from infection, a mite that lives on everyone’s skin, and/or a other bugs that naturally live within the gut. Scientists at the American Academy of Dermatology continue to research this condition in order to understand it and find a cure.
- We have seen enough cases of rosacea in this country to know that there are genetic factors involved. If you are wondering if that redness on your face is rosacea, and one of your parents also has that rosy glow, chances are you share the same condition.
- Rosacea can masquerade as acne. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis if you want to see your skin improve and avoid making it worse. The pimples and bumps and redness of rosacea can’t be treated in the same way as acne because underlying cause may be completely different.
- Symptom management is the key. There is no cure for rosacea. However, there ways to manage and treat rosacea flare ups. Some management techniques revolve around personal and environmental factors, such as avoiding direct sunlight and cold weather, certain foods, and hot drinks. There are also additional modalities, including laser treatment and oral antibiotics, that inhibit inflammation and fungal activity on the skin.
- Moisture is also key! The existence of rosacea means that the skin’s barrier has been disrupted and does not hold moisture as needed. The products that are used on the skin are crucial to dermatologic health, prevention of premature aging, and management of symptoms. Your dermatologist can help you find the right products for your skin.
- Rosacea treatment is a personal endeavor. There is no singular method or proper treatment that clears up anyone’s and everyone’s rosacea. In most cases, a multifaceted approach is most successful.
Contact Westerville Dermatology for a Rosacea Treatment Plan
While people with rosacea may experience different symptoms, there are some that are similar across the board, including facial redness and visible blood vessels, and as symptoms worsen, pus filled bumps, bulbous appearance, and eye problems. If you suspect that you may be experiencing the symptoms of rosacea or could develop rosacea, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your nearest dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.
Our experienced, board-certified dermatologists are here to support you in overcoming maintaining healthy, attractive skin. Call 614-895-0400 to schedule your consultation.