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Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels in your face. It may also produce small, red, pus-filled bumps. These signs and symptoms may flare up for a period of weeks to months and then diminish for a while. With its tendency to affect the central third of the face, especially the nose, Rosacea is often mistaken for acne or other skin conditions. Its prevalence is significant, affecting over 16 million Americans according to the National Rosacea Society, and many more may be in temporary remission.
The exact cause of Rosacea remains unclear, though various factors may contribute to its development. These include genetic predisposition, vascular irregularities, and triggers ranging from environmental factors to microbial ones. Demodex folliculorum, a microscopic mite that lives on human skin, and the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which is linked to gastrointestinal disease, have both been studied for their potential roles in Rosacea. Other contributing factors may include an overactive immune system and the skin's barrier function impairment.
- Persistent redness in the central part of the face - Visible broken blood vessels (spider veins) - Swollen skin - Skin sensitivity - Dry, rough, or scaly skin - Acne-like breakouts and skin bumps - Eye irritation; in some cases, Rosacea can affect the eyes, leading to redness, irritation, and swollen eyelids, a condition known as ocular Rosacea.
Rosacea is primarily diagnosed based on the history of your symptoms and a physical examination of your skin. There's no specific test for Rosacea, but in some cases, doctors might recommend certain tests to rule out other conditions with similar signs, such as lupus, eczema, or psoriasis. Dermatologists are uniquely skilled at diagnosing Rosacea and can often differentiate it from other skin conditions based purely on the characteristics of the visible symptoms.
Prevention of Rosacea involves avoiding known triggers. These might include avoiding sun exposure, limiting intake of spicy foods and hot beverages, minimizing stress, and avoiding extreme temperatures. For treatment, functional medicine offers a holistic approach that may help manage and alleviate the symptoms of Rosacea. Dietary changes, such as incorporating anti-inflammatory foods (omega-3 rich fish, leafy greens, nuts) and eliminating known inflammatory foods (processed foods, dairy, and high-sugar foods) can be beneficial. Nutritional supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and digestive enzymes may also support skin health. Topical natural treatments that can soothe Rosacea symptoms include aloe vera, green tea extract, and niacinamide (vitamin B3). These natural remedies can help reduce inflammation and skin irritation. It's essential to approach Rosacea treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional, particularly when incorporating natural and functional medicine strategies, to ensure they complement any medical treatments being used. The goal is to not only treat the symptoms but also address underlying causes and triggers, aiming for long-term management and improvement of Rosacea.