Medical Resource: Rosacea

Rosacea is estimated to affect more than 14 million Americans or 1 in 20 individuals. Presence of rosacea in patients may appear as red flushed cheeks, visible blood vessels under the skin or a rash-like appearance. Rosacea often affects people over the age of 30 but can be seen in individuals of any age, gender or health. While the condition is not life-threatening, it can become a nuisance to those who suffer from it. There are several subtypes of rosacea that can arise over time. In the early stages of the condition, the cheeks may flush easily, appear permanently sunburned or may develop blood vessels. More severe cases of rosacea may appear as pimples or bumps on the face. Thickening of the skin, especially around the nose, is seen mostly in males. Individuals with fair skin or those that are of English or Irish decent may be more susceptible to rosacea. The causes of rosacea are currently unknown but there are several theories that are thought to cause the condition, such as ethnicity, sun damage or blood vessels that rest too close to the skin’s surface.

Cause

Rosacea is triggered by many of the same environmental factors that cause flushing or blushing of the skin. Strenuous exercise, exposure to extreme temperature, sunlight, stress and cold winds are the most common of triggers, according to the National Rosacea Society. Other factors that can lead to rosacea symptoms include alcohol consumption, spicy foods, certain fruits and vegetables and dairy products. Rosacea patients have been noted to have elevated levels of stratum corneum typtic enzymes and peptide cathelicidin. Intestinal bacteria also play a role in the condition and are found in many patients who experience a relapse.

Diagnosis

Many individuals are never professionally diagnosed for rosacea when minor symptoms occur that may resemble other conditions. There is no specific testing available for the diagnosis of rosacea. Inspection by a physician is typically sufficient for patients who show signs of the condition. In some cases, a series of treatments are used to confirm a suspected case of rosacea. Rosacea is typically seen on the face, although it can appear on other areas of the body. Similar disorders can be confused for rosacea, such as seborrhoeic dermatitis or acne vulgaris, which often show a presence on the ears or scalp.

Treatments

Rosacea can be treated through avoidance of the factors that trigger the condition, medications, dermatological vascular laser machines or a combination of the three. Patients often keep food journals to identify trigger foods and beverages. Sunlight and exposure to heat and humidity is often avoided or used with sunscreen and proper attire. Gentle daily cleansing of the affected areas, topical antibiotics and warm compresses can also help to lessen symptoms. Dermatological vascular laser machines are one of the most efficient treatments for rosacea. Light from the machine penetrates the epidermis and heats the capillary walls. The walls are damaged by the heat, resulting in the absorption of broken capillaries by the body as its natural defense mechanism.

Notable Cases

Many rosacea patients are unaware that many famous people have the condition. Knowing famous individuals who have rosacea can give patients the confidence and reassurance to seek treatment for their skin condition. Some famous people who have rosacea include Bill Clinton, Rosie O’Donnell, Mariah Carey, Alex Ferguson and J.P. Morgan. Other individuals who have this condition include Meg Cabot, W.C. Fields, Margaret Bobonich, Lisa Faulknever, Ricky Wilson and Dita Von Teese. These are just a few of the notable cases of rosacea among famous persons. With proper treatment and home remedies, the symptoms of rosacea can be hidden from public view.