Rosacea
Overview of rosacea
Rosacea is a common skin condition noticed in adults between the age group of 30 and 50 years. It is characterized by prolonged blushing or flushing in the central areas of the face along with redness, which is generally nonitchy. Women seem to be more commonly affected than men. If left untreated, rosacea can result in complications of the eyes.1
Causes of rosacea
Causes of rosacea
Rosacea occurs due to an inflammatory reaction of the skin tissues wherein the exact triggering factor that initiates this reaction is not known.
Signs and Symptoms of rosacea
Signs and symptoms of rosacea
The signs and symptoms observed may differ in each individual with rosacea. The common feature of rosacea is the intermittent flushing or blushing of the central areas of the face (the cheeks, on and around the nose and below the eyes), which is associated with redness.
Diagnosis of rosacea
The diagnosis of rosacea is made based on the signs and symptoms noted and by ruling out the other causes that may display similar clinical features. Evaluation of the presence of various triggering or aggravating factors is also made. Skin biopsy may at times be advised to confirm the diagnosis.1
Treatment of rosacea
Treatment of rosacea
The first-line of treatment of rosacea is the administration of antibiotics that belong to the group of tetracycline, doxycycline and metronidazole as tablets that need to be taken orally.
Complications of rosacea
Emotional and social problems due to the redness and other signs of rosacea are commonly encountered. The involvement of the eye may at times be severe enough to cause permanent damage to the cornea requiring its replacement. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment help in the prevention of these complications.
Prevention of rosacea
Exposure to aggravating factors such as sunlight, hot weather, alcohol or spicy foods should be avoided. Use of sunscreen lotions prevents worsening of the symptoms on exposure to sunlight. Skin care products that irritate the skin and heavy use of cosmetics should be avoided.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: August 15, 2011