Rosacea

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that usually affects people from age thirty to fifty. It causes redness and swelling on the face and it that can also affect the scalp, neck, ears, chest, back and even around the eyes. Rosacea is thought to be caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. It is not contagious but it can be disfiguring if left untreated. Rosacea can also become a source of emotional stress and embarrassment. Signs of rosacea can develop over a long period and may include one or more of the following:

• Facial redness - flushing and persistent redness with possible visible blood vessels
• Skin thickening - skin thickening and enlargement, usually around the nose
• Eye irritation - watery or bloodshot eyes, irritation, burning or stinging
• Bumps and pus-filled pimples - persistent facial redness with bumps or pimples, inflamed and itchy

How is it Treated?

Treatment for rosacea focuses on calming the symptoms. Treatments can include oral and topical medications, lifestyle modifications, laser, and light therapies. Your specific treatment will be based on the severity and type of rosacea you have. A combination of treatments might be necessary for best results. Avoiding common triggers will help to avoid flare ups. Some common rosacea triggers include sun exposure, spicy foods, hot baths, alcohol consumption and emotional stress. Early diagnosis and treatment of rosacea can't prevent it, but can control symptoms, alleviate discomfort, and stop rosacea from progressing. Other steps to take to manage your rosacea include:

• avoiding drinking alcohol
• avoiding direct sunlight and wearing sunscreen
• microdermabrasion treatments to reduce thickening skin
• taking eye medicines and antibiotics for ocular rosacea
• using lasers and light treatment to help with some severe cases of rosacea

For more information on how Texas Dermatology can help you treat rosacea contact the office or stop by today.