Pronounced: rose-AY-sha
Rosacea is a skin disorder. It causes chronic redness of the face. It can also cause swelling, tiny pimples, and the appearance of broken blood vessels. Rosacea usually affects the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose. The ears, chest, and back may also be affected. More than half of people with rosacea also have mild eye symptoms. This may include redness, burning, and watering. This is known as ocular rosacea.
The cause of rosacea is unknown. Several theories exist. Factors that can cause flushing or blushing may trigger flare-ups in people with rosacea.
These factors include:
Factors that increase your risk for rosacea include:
The symptoms of rosacea vary from person to person. They include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your skin will also be examined. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in skin disorders. This type of doctor is called a dermatologist. Do not try to diagnose or treat yourself. Certain over-the-counter medications could make your condition worse.
Rosacea generally can't be cured. It can be controlled. There are several ways to manage rosacea. Your doctor may recommend more than one, depending on your condition.
Prescription medications for rosacea include:
In more severe cases, medications may sometimes include:
*Topical cortisone is generally avoided on the face. It can make rosacea worse in the long run. It can be effective as very short-term treatment.
Treatment for redness or flushing may include:
The following procedures minimize redness, enlarged blood vessels, and an enlarged nose:
Preventing rosacea can be difficult. If you have rosacea, there are several steps you can take to control the condition:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.aad.org/
National Rosacea Society
http://www.rosacea.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Dermatology Association
http://www.dermatology.ca/english/
Dermatologists.ca
http://www.dermatologists.ca/
References:
American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: http://www.aad.org .
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disorders website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ .
Tanzi EL, Weinberg JM. The ocular manifestations of rosacea. Cutis. 2001;68:112-114. Review.
Crawford GH, Pelle MT, James WD. Rosacea: I. Etiology, pathogenesis, and subtype classification. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:327-341;quiz 342-344. Review.
Pelle MT, Crawford GH, James WD. Rosacea: II therapy. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:499-512;quiz 513-514. Review.
Last reviewed February 2009 by Ross Zeltser, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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