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Rosacea Basics
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder characterized by redness of the
cheeks, nose, chin and forehead that may come and go (flare-ups and
remissions).
People with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily tend to be at greatest risk of developing rosacea. It is more frequently diagnosed in women, but more severe symptoms tend to be seen in men. Rosacea, usually experienced by people over 30 years old, often starts with mild symptoms which become more persistent over time.
The cause of rosacea remains unknown and there is presently no cure. However, there are a variety of safe and effective treatment options to reduce the inflammation, redness and other symptoms.
Left untreated, rosacea can worsen. What might first appear as areas of redness (erythema) and flushing, may evolve over time into bumps and pimples. These can further worsen and, and in severe cases, the nose may grow swollen and bumpy from excess tissue.
There are four subtypes of rosacea. Rosacea patients may have more than one subtype at the same time.
Rosacea Subtype 1 (Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea causing facial redness)
Rosacea Subtype 2 (Papulopustular rosacea causing bumps and pimples)
Rosacea Subtype 3 (Phymatous rosacea causing enlargement of the nose)
Rosacea Subtype 4 (Ocular rosacea causing eye irritation.
People who suspect they may have rosacea are urged to see a dermatologist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Rosacea Information
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