Rosacea
Symptoms
Rosacea typically causes persistent facial redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels on the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead. Patients may experience burning or stinging sensations. Papules and pustules resembling acne often appear during flare‑ups. In some cases, the nose becomes bulbous and enlarged (rhinophyma). Ocular rosacea can lead to watery, irritated eyes and eyelid inflammation.
Cause
The exact cause is multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and vascular hypersensitivity. Triggers such as sun exposure, hot or spicy foods, alcohol, emotional stress, and extreme temperatures precipitate flare‑ups. Demodex mites and microbial dysbiosis may exacerbate inflammation in susceptible skin. Abnormal blood‑vessel reactivity contributes to persistent erythema. Hormonal factors and family history can increase risk.
Treatment
Daily broad‑spectrum sunscreen and trigger avoidance form the foundation of management. Topical agents like metronidazole, azelaic acid, or ivermectin reduce inflammatory lesions. Oral tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline) treat moderate to severe papulopustular rosacea and ocular involvement. Vascular lasers or intense pulsed light diminish persistent redness and telangiectasias. Severe rhinophyma may require surgical debulking or CO₂ laser resurfacing.
Dr. Beth Schulz-Butulis
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.