 The chronic skin condition that causes continual redness and swelling on the face is commonly known as Rosacea. Rosacea is a skin condition that currently affects over 14 million Americans, however, many don’t even realize that they have it. There are several different types of Rosacea, some are commonly confused with acne. The most common form of Rosacea consists of continual skin redness on the cheeks, nose and chin. Other forms consist of more severe symptoms. Depending on the condition of your Rosacea, there are treatments that can help to combat its effects, but it is important for sufferers to know there is no cure for Rosacea. Continual treatment, however, can help Rosacea sufferers to experience smooth, clear skin with lasting results.
The most common types of Rosacea are Acne Rosacea, Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea, Papulopustual Rosacea and Ocular Rosacea.
Acne Rosacea: Acne rosacea goes beyond the traditional redness of rosacea, it also involves red patches, bumps and broken blood vessels on the face. While commonly mistaken for acne, with acne rosacea, whiteheads and blackheads are not present and the bumps are not 'squeezable' like with traditional acne.
Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea: Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is characterized by persistent redness, flushing and telangiectasias (broken capillaries). Some individuals can also experience burning and stinging sensations as well as overall roughness of the skin. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is what most rosacea sufferers have.
Papulopustual Rosacea is most often characterized by persistent central facial redness with temporary papules and pustules; it is another form of rosacea that can be mistaken for acne. The symptoms most often resemble red acne bumps, but no whiteheads or blackheads are experienced. The skin will often appear red, swollen, sore and congested. Oftentimes those who suffer from erythematotelangiectatic rosacea will also have some papulopustual rosacea symptoms.
Ocular Rosacea: The most severe form of rosacea is found in ocular rosacea, a form that affects the eyes. Almost 60% of rosacea sufferers, at some point, will develop difficulties affecting the eye. This ailment causes dryness, burning and grittiness. Sufferers will also experience a watery bloodshot appearance, stinging, itching, foreign body sensation, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and broken capillaries or telangiectasias in the conjunctiva and lip. If left untreated, ocular rosacea can eventually damage the cornea causing impaired vision.
The onset and causes of rosacea are unknown, however several factors can contribute to, and worsen outbreaks. Common instigators include: extremes of hot and cold, wind, sun exposure, heavy exercise, alcohol consumption (red wine, beer), hot beverages (coffee, hot chocolate), certain fruits or vegetables, spicy foods and stress. While rosacea is incurable, there are treatments currently available that are able to control or eliminate the symptoms. It is important for individuals to know that early intervention will help to impede this skin condition from progressing; the sooner you treat, the better your chances are of keeping symptoms at bay. Consulting with your dermatologist will allow you to discover exactly how severe your rosacea is. Once you’re aware, you can research treatments that can help you to experience smooth, clear skin with lasting results.
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