Rosacea

If you have noticed your facial skin to easily to blush or flush, see redness across your nose and cheeks, have acne like breakouts, or just feel your skin is becoming more sensitive, you may have developed a very common skin condition known as rosacea. Millions of people across America have rosacea. Some cases may be mild and other cases so severe that it begins to cause abnormalities of the skin. Rosacea affects people of all ages and skin color.  Literature shows that rosacea is more common in women, but can affect men more severely. Should you exhibit the signs or symptoms of rosacea, it is recommended to visit Georgia Dermatology Center for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan.

Signs and symptoms of rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that causes redness, flushing and swelling on the face. While the cause is still unknown, certain triggers can cause rosacea to flare up. Emotional stresses, anxiety, and even changes in the weather can aggravate the condition. Other factors may include exercise, alcohol consumption, and spicy foods. There are several types of rosacea, which increase in severity the longer treatment of the condition is deferred. Symptoms include:

• Persistent redness on the nose and cheeks, often chin and forehead
• Increased visibility of small blood vessels
• Consistent redness after exercise, hot drinks, caffeinated beverages or alcohol
• Small red pimples which look similar to acne
• Textural changes of the skin (mainly nose and chin)

Another form of rosacea is ocular rosacea. Ocular rosacea affects the eyes. Symptoms of ocular involvement may include eyes being watery or visibly bloodshot, they may feel like they have sand or grit in them, the eyes may also burn, sting, and itch. Your vision may be affected as well and be sensitive to light. Ocular rosacea needs to be addressed and treated to prevent damage to your eyesight. You may be referred to an ophthalmologist to manage your ocular rosacea.

Treatment Options

Early diagnosis from our board certified dermatologist at Georgia Dermatology Center is the best defense against rosacea. Delay in treatment may result in more severe symptoms that are harder to treat. Treatment options will be determined after an examination.Rosacea can be treated effectively and managed appropriately to the severity of the condition. However, there is no “cure” for rosacea and treatment protocols can be tried and altered according to the patient’s condition.

References: www.aad.org