Turning Red In The Face Often? It Could Be Rosacea.

Our series of diving deep into some of the most common yet stubborn skin conditions has led us to our next topic, Rosacea. Rosacea is a condition that causes visible redness on the face. You may even notice blood vessels more prominently. In its mildest forms, it appears as if you blush too easily. In adverse cases, red bumps erupt all over the skin.

What causes Rosacea?

While the main causes of Rosacea still remain a mystery, researchers suggest that the causes could be a mix of hereditary and environmental factors. Having said that, studies have found a number of factors or triggers that can aggravate rosacea simply by increasing blood flow to the skin’s surface.

These include:

-   Microbial organisms

  • Breakdown of collagen under the skin
  • Hot drinks
  • Spicy foods
  • Extreme temperatures
  • Overexposure to sun and strong winds
  • Heightened emotions
  • Alcohol
  • Medications that dilate blood vessels

What signs should I look out for?

 The key to treating rosacea successfully is identifying the signs early on.

-      Persistent facial redness, especially in the central area.

  • Swollen red bumps that resemble acne, but make your skin feel hot and tender.
  • Enlarged nose, caused by accumulation of tissue under the skin. Your nose may start appearing bulbous. This is a symptom more commonly seen in men.
  • Eye problems - in its advanced stages, about 50% of people suffering from rosacea have complained of eye problems. These include, dryness in the eyes, irritation, inflammation and reddened eyelids.

Who is likely to suffer from rosacea?

Rosacea can happen to just about anyone. However, over the years, researchers have identified patterns that suggest rosacea is more common among:

  • Adults over the age of 30
  • Those with fair skin
  • Those whose skin is already damaged by high exposure to the sun
  • Smokers
  • Women
  • Those who have a family history of the condition

Can it be treated?

There is no cure for rosacea as yet. But with the help of a combination of treatment methods and lifestyle changes, you can definitely keep it suppressed.

-      Topical medications & oral antibiotics: Treatment for rosacea is generally a combination of topical and oral antibiotics.

Most importantly, DO NOT self-diagnose and self-medicate. You need a dermatologist to guide you through the treatment!

Additionally, it’s important that you:

-      Identify what triggers your rosacea

  • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 every time you step out
  • Avoid exposure to the sun
  • Try natural Remedies like honey, aloe vera and cucumber to help suppress and calm mild redness down.

-      Use only mild skincare products, and avoid scrubbing your skin

It is crucial to know about rosacea because it’s so easily confused with an acne outbreak, eczema or an allergic reaction. The more the treatment is prolonged, the harder it is to suppress and the symptoms are even more aggressive.

 

 

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