Rosacea is a skin disorder that affects up to 16 million Americans. However, only a fraction of rosacea sufferers are being treated. If you suffer from rosacea, you understand the significant psychological, social and even occupational problems that arise if you fail to seek treatment. Rosacea involves red flushing and acne-like symptoms on your face that tend to be triggered by environmental or lifestyle situations that are difficult to control. Therefore, it is not surprising that in surveys by the National Rosacea Society, more than 76% of rosacea patients said their condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem. Furthermore, 88% patients with severe symptoms reported an adverse effect on their professional interactions in the workplace and 51% have even missed work because of their rosacea condition.
Most researchers agree that rosacea is likely to be caused by facial blood vessels that dilate too easily, and the increased blood near the skin surface makes the skin appear red and flushed. However, this condition is not just the intense flushing we commonly label it to be. There are four subtypes of rosacea, with symptoms ranging from acne-like bumps, thickening skin to eye irritation and swelling.
While there is no cure for this frustrating skin condition, the good news is that rosacea treatment from a certified dermatologist is most often successful in reducing its symptoms and frequency on a long term basis. In fact, in a National Rosacea Society survey, about half of rosacea sufferers said without treatment their condition had advanced from early to middle stage within a year. A full-service dermatology practice, such as Olansky Dermatology Associates, can offer treatment for rosacea with both topical creams and laser therapy.
Sun exposure and hot weather are the leading triggers of Rosacea. However, emotional stress follows closely behind as a major cause of rosacea flare-ups. In addition to medical therapy, it is helpful to try and manage the factors that specifically trigger your rosacea, whether it be staying indoors more on hot summer days or engaging in stress-reducing activities to help with your rosacea.
Contact a dermatologist right away to learn which specific subtype your rosacea condition is and what professional treatment option is best for you.
