About Rosacea
It is a chronic condition that typically affects the face. Rosacea can develop at any age. More frequently seen in women but tends to be more severe in men.
Left untreated, inflammatory bumps and pimples often develop, and in severe cases the nose may grow swollen and bumpy from excess tissue. In as many as 50 percent of patients the eyes are also affected, feeling irritated and appearing watery or bloodshot.
Risk factors include:
- Heat
- Exercise
- Sunlight
- Spicy food
- Alcohol
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Severe cold
- Menopause
Treatment Options
- Avoiding the triggers/risk factors.
- Oral medicines
- If eyes are affected, antibiotic eye drops like azithromycin.
- Laser resurfacing or dermabrasion can be of benefit in mild to moderate cases.
- Use of sunscreen everyday is a must.
- Proper Skin Care Routine
While there is no permanent cure, symptomatic treatments can be used
Questions & Answers
Do you have a question about Rosacea? To get started, ask your family physician for a requisition form to book an appointment with Dr. Neel Malhotra and we look forward to seeing you at our clinic.
Can Rosacea be Prevented?
No! The cause of Rosacea is unknown, due to which preventing it is not possible. It may get triggered by various factors like spicy food, stress, cosmetics, exercise, sun, wind and cold.
Does Rosacea usually begin in childhood?
It is rarely seen in childhood. Most common age to experience Rosacea is 30 to 50 yrs. Other subjective risk factors include fair skin, being English or Irish and having menopause.
How do I control flushing/blushing?
Individuals with Rosacea should identify and avoid environmental and lifestyle factors that cause flushing. In severe cases, certain medications may be prescribed to reduce the intensity and frequency of flushing, and a topical therapy is now available to treat persistent facial redness.
Are Rosacea Patients more likely to get skin cancer later in life?
No! Medical evidence has not linked rosacea directly with skin cancer.
Can Rosacea involve the eyes?
Yes! It is known as Ocular Rosacea. Eye symptoms may include a watery or bloodshot appearance and a dry, gritty feeling with burning, itching and/or stinging. Individuals with Rosacea may be prone to styes, light sensitivity and blurred vision may also be present. If left untreated, decreased visual acuity due to corneal involvement may occur.