Rosacea is a pretty common skin disorder, right? Most people have mild cases that simply produce reddish skin and perhaps a few visible veins, don't they? So what's the matter with managing your case on your own?
Yes, Rosacea is a very common condition. In fact, The National Rosacea Society estimates that more than 14 million people in the U.S. have the skin disease, whether they realize it or not. And indeed, most cases are mild and managed well with home treatment. But there's still reason to consult an experienced physician, preferably a dermatologist, if you suspect you have rosacea.
The most obvious reason to see a doctor is that rosacea tends to worsen over time. The condition may spread to involve cheeks, nose, chin, forehead and beyond to the neck, chest and other areas. Permanent redness, more spidery veins and small, pimple-like bumps may appear. In advanced cases, people develop lumps on and around the nose that multiply. In some patients, the eyes are involved. The most serious cases of this ocular rosacea can cause eye problems like itching and burning, swelling and even blurred vision.
Another reason to get expert advice when you're first diagnosed with rosacea is that an experienced professional can help you find the right treatment to help you get and keep your condition under control. Oral and topical treatments from mild to more aggressive are available, and it often takes some time to settle on the combination that works best for each individual.
Finally, if you are considering ways to improve the appearance of your skin, a trained professional will be able to help you understand the merits of options such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment, photorejuvenation and a variety of lasers. New equipment is introduced into the market every year, each one claiming to be the true "breakthrough" in skin care. It takes a dedicated physician to keep up with the latest technology and understand which option is best for each unique case.
Yes, you should have a strong hand in managing your rosacea - hand in hand with your physician. Like just about every other chronic condition, rosacea is handled best with a caring doctor-patient partnership.