According to the National Rosacea Society, more than 16 million Americans suffer from rosacea. Often mistaken for other conditions, rosacea may go undiagnosed. While rosacea is a chronic condition, it can be treated using a variety of techniques depending on the type and severity of the condition.
Our dermatologist at Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology is dedicated to helping you find the treatment that will resolve the condition and improve your quality of life.
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a skin condition that is indicated by redness appearing on the face, caused by visible blood vessels. In some cases, rosacea may also produce small pustules which can flare up for a period of weeks or months before once again going dormant. Because of its similarity of symptoms, rosacea is often mistaken for acne or an allergic reaction.
What are the Symptoms of Rosacea?
Rosacea is most often found in middle-aged women of northern European descent. Although there are different types of rosacea, they are all characterized by similar symptoms.
Facial redness in the middle regions of the face.
Swollen, puss-filled bumps which can resemble acne.
Dryness of the eyes or the skin of the eyelids.
An enlarged, red nose which can eventually develop thickened skin and a swollen appearance.
Treatment for rosacea is usually focused on controlling inflammation and frequency of flareups associated with the condition. Often, a combination of therapies is useful in the treatment of rosacea. Your dermatologist may be able to provide prescription topical treatments that will reduce redness and inflammation. Oral antibiotics like doxycycline may also be prescribed in order to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that cause rosacea flare-ups.
If those treatments do not work, a prescription retinol such as Accutane has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms and frequency of rosacea. Modern laser therapies are another treatment option that could bring you relief. The first step is to have the condition diagnosed by our board-certified dermatologist.
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