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Rosacea: What You Need to Know

A condition that is characterized by a cycle of constant flare-ups and remission of skin irritation, rosacea is estimated to affect between 13 and 14 million people in the United States. The inflammatory skin condition is typically first observed in patients who are over the age of 30. While it is more common for women to experience the condition, its symptoms are often more severe in men. Physical signs include flushing in the center of the face, pustules, papules, ocular lesions, rhinophyma, telangiectasia, and erythema. In terms of physical appearance, the condition may resemble acne. Patients who experience rosacea may also become physiologically distressed as a result of struggling with the chronic skin irritation.
Causes
The cause of rosacea is unknown; however, there are many theories, which include hyperactive immune system, degradation of the dermal matrix, and even infestation by a particular type of mite. Researchers also believe they have identified specific factors that may contribute to the onset of the condition. Genetics may play a role in the occurrence of rosacea as 40 percent of people who are diagnosed with the condition also have a family member who has the skin disorder. Possible dietary and environmental triggers include alcohol, direct sunlight, hot weather, cold weather, spicy foods, stress, exercise, wind, hot drinks, hot baths, and the use of certain medications and skin care products.
Treatment
Because doctors are unaware of a cure for rosacea, treatment mainly consists of managing the patient’s symptoms. The foundation of rosacea treatment mainly consists of the patient avoiding triggers in the interest of minimizing flare-ups. This approach simply requires the patient to abstain from exposing their skin to factors that appear to be associated with irritation. Topical creams and oral medications are also used to manage flare-up symptoms. However, these medications have mostly been observed to be effective in cases that involve skin inflammation as opposed to rosacea patients who only experience vascular flushing or redness with no skin irritation. However, patients who primarily experience excessive flushing may be effectively treated with laser and light-based therapies.

Trust the Tucson dermatologists at Specialists in Dermatology for all of your cosmetic dermatology and general dermatology needs. Call them today for an appointment today.

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