Written by Chrystal Moulton, Staff Writer. Details the symptoms and best methods for dealing with rosacea.
Rosacea is a skin condition characterized by flushing, redness, inflammation, and tiny veins called capillaries visible on the skin surface. It is a chronic and progressive disease most commonly affecting middle-aged individuals. There are four subtypes of rosacea all affecting different areas of the skin (see table 1 for details). It is believed that rosacea is a result of sun damage to the deeper layer of the skin (or the dermis), but there is no evidence on a definite cause related to its development.
Table 1. Types of Rosacea
Type
Ocular Phymatous Erythrematotelangiectatic Papulopustular
Area Affected Eyes Nose Facial skin, chest, ears, scalp Central zone of face
Symptoms Blurred vision, gritty feeling Stinging, soreness, burning sensation Stinging, soreness Stinging, soreness, burning sensation, sensitivity
Characteristics Redness, soreness, Conjunctivitis*
Blepharitis*
Visible tiny blood vessels
Redness
Visible tiny blood vessels
Redness
Flushing
Papules*
Pustules*
Inflammation
Redness
*Conjunctivitis- aka pinkeye, swelling of the transparent membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye.
*Blepharitis- inflammation of the eyelids, symptoms itchy burning sensation and dandruff of eyelids
*Pustules- small bump on the skin containing fluid or pus; pimples
*Papules- a solid round growth on the skin that resembles a pimple but has not visible fluid inside.
One common misunderstanding about rosacea is that facial flushing (a typical symptom) is due to excessive alcohol consumption. Although alcohol could worsen the condition, there is no evidence that it directly causes flushing. However, factors that may cause facial flushing and irritation may be unique to each individual. Some examples include: harsh soaps, alcohol wipes, spicy foods, changes in temperature or seasons, stress, bacteria, and sun exposure.
Recommended skin care would include washing with moisturizing body washes, applying light, non-greasy moisturizers after washing or between topical treatments as needed to soothe skin and prevent dryness. Water based cosmetic products should be used in place of oil based products, which can irritate the skin. Using sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on a daily basis as well is especially important. Topical drugs and oral antibiotics are the general treatments prescribed for rosacea. Treatment is generally long-term and gradual. Discontinuation of treatment can result in immediate relapse of symptoms. Cosmetic products may also be recommended for those who want to deal with redness due to rosacea.
Source: Van Onselen, Julie. “Rosacea: symptoms and support.” British Journal of Nursing 21, no. 21 (2012).
© 2012 British Journal of Nursing
Posted August 25, 2014.
Reference:
- Van Onselen J. Rosacea: symptoms and support. Br J Nurs. 2012 Nov 22-Dec 12;21(21):1252-5.
