There is no identified cause of rosacea, but there are some factors that contribute to abnormalities in blood vessels, mainly on the face. This condition is common among people of northern European ancestry, but studies show that incidences of rosacea in developed countries in the Middle East, China and South Asia are rising. Persistent redness and flushing of the blood vessels is a major factor. However, the cause of the inflammation is still unknown. Some things that contribute are:
• A microscopic mite called demodex folliculourm is found in much higher numbers on people who have rosacea. It is not clear to experts if the mites cause the rosacea, or if the condition attracts the mites.
• A bacterium that is found in the gut, H. pylori, causes blood vessels to dilate. Some experts suggest that this bacterium contributes to rosacea.
• Heredity is a major cause of the condition, but experts have not isolated the genes that are involved or how they are passed on to the next generation.
For those who have rosacea, there are triggers that can make the condition worse. The triggers may vary between individuals, so knowing your triggers may help reduce flare-ups. Some of the most common triggers that cause flare-ups for a large number of people are:
• Spicy foods
• Hot drinks
• Hot baths or saunas
• Vigorous exercise
• Cold wind
• Direct sunlight
• Dairy products
• Strong emotions, such as anger, anxiety or embarrassment
• Alcohol consumption can be a trigger, but not a cause
During a consultation with our specialist, your facial skin may be examined and certain questions asked about symptoms and triggers. If you have enlarged blood vessels, it may help our specialist distinguish rosacea from other skin disorders. In some cases, more tests may be required to determine if there are any underlying medical conditions.
Symptoms of rosacea vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:
• Flushing or blushing easily
• Ultra-sensitive skin where the blood vessels dilate easily
• After flushing, the redness does not go away quickly
• Inflamed blood vessels that swell and look like tiny spider webs
• Excess skin around the nose
• Burning, bloodshot eyes
• Swelling in the face when the blood vessels leak excess fluid and the lymphatic system cannot drain the leaks fast enough
Fortunately, there are treatments available at Estetika Skin & Laser Specialists that can reduce the appearance of rosacea. When you consult with our specialist, you can learn about your triggers, as well as things you can do to prevent triggers, stop flare-ups and reduce the redness on your face. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our office in Sarasota Florida.
