Types of Rosacea
What may be misinterpreted as mere blushing or flushed cheeks can be a serious skin condition called rosacea. There are four types of rosacea afflicting men and women today. Each rosacea condition is characterized by symptoms often accompanied by severe redness and visibility of blood vessels.
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Significance
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Many fair-skinned complexions over the age of 30 that have a tendency to blush easily may possibly be experiencing rosacea. Many are unaware that skin reddening can be more serious than it appears to be. Understanding the symptoms of rosacea can bring awareness and possibly prevent further skin damage.
Mild Rosacea: Persistent Flushing
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The most common type of rosacea manifests on the face through persistent reddening or flushing. Stinging or burning sensations, with the appearance of blood vessels on the cheeks, can accompany facial redness. This condition is also called erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. It can be caused by many factors--referred to as triggers--such as emotional stress, hot baths or very humid air, spicy food, alcohol, exercise, and some skin products.
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Moderate: Skin Bumps
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In addition to redness, temporary bumps or pimples characterize the next type of rosacea. It is often known as papulopustular rosacea. This type usually appears in a central area of the face that is reddened. The pustules or bumps may contain pus (hence the name), and the redness can become permanent.
Severe Rosacea: Nose and Eyes
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When rosacea manifests through thickening of the skin, it is called phymatous rosacea. It is common in the nose area, characterized by an enlargement of the nose due to the excessive tissue. The redness is still evident in this case. Other parts of the face may also suffer swelling at some point.
Ocular rosacea affects the eyes in many ways. People who suffer from this type of rosacea may experience dry eyes, burning sensations, swollen eyelids and a recurring sty. Bloodshot eyes are also present in some cases. This is a potentially risky type as it can lead to damage of the cornea.
Treatment and Prevention
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There are no known highly effective treatments for rosacea, but there are temporary remedies for the symptoms. To reduce redness and bumps, either oral or topical antibiotics like tetracycline or metronidazole may be taken to relieve the affected areas. Topical azelaic acids, on the other hand, control the growth of papules and lesions. A chemical called clonidine can block the body's tendency for blushing or redness. Laser treatments can remove excessive tissues in the nose area.
Avoiding triggers such as certain foods, excessive sun exposure and irritating skin products can prevent rosacea. Following a gentle skin care regimen and regular use of sunblock creams are good measures to employ to keep rosacea at bay. And more importantly, before taking any of these measures, consult your physician and/or dermatologist for proper and professional advice.
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