Rosacea Specialist

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a disease that affects your skin. It’s characterized by visible redness that occurs on the face, and more specifically, your cheeks and nose. Anyone can experience rosacea, but it’s especially common in white women aged 40 and older. 

What are the symptoms of rosacea?

Symptoms of rosacea include:

• Facial blushing or flushing
• Visible facial veins
• Swollen bumps
• Burning sensation
• Eye problems

Rosacea can also affect the appearance of your nose. Many men with rosacea have noses that look bumpy and bulbous. 

What causes rosacea?

Dermatologists aren’t entirely sure what causes rosacea, but several factors are thought to contribute, including genetics, environmental factors, and an overactive immune system. Some triggers that cause rosacea flare-ups include:

• Hot drinks
• Spicy foods
• Exercise
• Intense emotions
• Sun and wind

If you have rosacea, you might also notice that certain types of makeup and skin care products make your symptoms worse. 

Who is at risk of rosacea?

Rosacea affects people of all ages and races, but certain factors may increase your risk, including being female, being age 30 or older, and smoking. You’re also more likely to experience rosacea if the disease runs in your family. 

How is rosacea diagnosed?

To diagnose rosacea, your Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago provider reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including when they started and if certain activities like drinking alcohol or going outside make them worse.

Next, your provider examines your skin, looking for signs of redness, irritation, or swelling. They might also order tests to rule out underlying medical conditions that present similar symptoms like lupus or psoriasis.

After determining the source of your symptoms, your provider develops a custom treatment plan that aligns with your needs.

How is rosacea treated?

There’s no cure for rosacea, but with routine checkups, healthy lifestyle changes, and prescription medication, you can prevent uncomfortable symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

The team at Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago might recommend:

• Topical drugs that reduce flushing and redness
• Oral antibiotics
• Oral acne drugs
• Laser therapy
• Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
• Avoiding exposure to direct sunlight

You might also benefit from using skin care products and makeup formulated for sensitive skin.

If you’re concerned about having rosacea, make an appointment with the team at Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago. Call the office or use the online scheduling feature today.