Rosacea is a disease whose initial symptoms usually begin after the age of 30. The frequency among women is higher, but the symptoms in men are more severe and more difficult to respond to treatment. The disease is characterized by several stages, each of which is characteristically different therapy for rosacea.
Causes for rosacea
There is a marked heredity in rosacea. The disease is characterized by impaired regulation of blood flow to the skin of the face. An increased population of Demodex folliculorum is found in rosacea patients. There are other external factors that can worsen your condition or compromise ongoing rosacea treatment. Yeah, they're like that:
- All warming procedures, such as hot showers, saunas, steam baths and others
- The consumption of spicy foods
- The intake of alcohol and in particular red wine
The listed lead to the expansion of blood vessels and blood stasis, which is the basis of the pathogenetic mechanism of the disease.
Rosacea - pictures
Symptoms of rosacea most often begin around the 30th anniversary of life. The characteristic is that they involve the face and more specifically its central part. The initial signs are prolonged redness of the skin, especially in the area of the nose and cheeks. This is often overlooked by patients by not taking preventative measures or initial rosacea treatment. Left untreated, the disease can progress through various stages.
Stage 0 – Transitory Erythema – Initial stage of the disease. It is characterized by transient redness of the facial skin. The symptoms are not constant, but are provoked under certain conditions - stress, heat treatments, consumption of alcohol and spicy foods. After stopping the provoking factor, the redness disappears.
Stage 1 – Rosacea Erythematosa – Again characterized by the typical redness of the facial skin. Unlike the previous stage, the redness is constant, under the influence of the mentioned factors it becomes more intense, and when they stop, it can weaken, but it never disappears. Small, thread-like capillaries are also seen, especially in the area of the cheeks and cheekbones.
Stage 2 – Rosacea papulopustulosa – A rash on the face (in the form of papules and pustules) and edema are added to the clinical picture of stage 1. Patients subjectively complain of a feeling of "tension".
Stage 3 – Rosacea Conglobata – A rare, severe form of rosacea, more common in men. The clinical picture resembles conglomerate acne. Inflamed cysts and nodules form, which heal, leaving scars.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made on the basis of the characteristic clinical picture. Histological examination is rarely necessary. Female gender, family history, intensification of symptoms after provocation speak in favor of rosacea. In terms of differential diagnosis, conglobatic acne, steroid acne and perioral dermatitis.
Creams for rosacea
For people with sensitive and rosacea-prone skin, as well as in the initial stages of the disease, it is enough to avoid the provoking factors and use appropriate cosmetics. It includes micellar water and tonic for sensitive skin, suitable moisturizing cream, sun protection with a high factor. Some rosacea creams are used in the initial stages – Metronidazole cream, Erythromycin cream or gel. They have an anti-inflammatory effect and reduce the population of Demodex folliculorum.
Treatment of rosacea with antibiotics
Antibiotics for rosacea are used in stage 2 and 3 of the disease. Their systemic forms from the groups of tetracyclines and macrolides are most often used. The therapy lasts several weeks. They are most often administered in subtherapeutic doses.
Treatment of rosacea with retinoids
In severe forms of the disease, a course of systemic retinoids such as Roaccutane can be given. The duration of treatment is 1-3 months. Contraindications are pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Rosacea treatment with laser
Laser therapy is indicated in the initial stages of the disease. With appropriate equipment, diffuse redness on the skin of the face can be removed, as well as small, thread-like capillaries.
Treatment of rosacea at a dermatologist in Sofia
If you have sensitive skin or facial redness that is provoked by stress, heat treatments or red wine, it is necessary to make an appointment with a dermatologist, because these may be initial symptoms of rosacea. In clinic Dr. Stavrov Aesthetics diagnoses and treats various skin and venereal diseases. Our address is the city of Sofia, g.k. Manastirski livadi - west, Prof. Velizar Velkov St. 36 (behind Pulse fitness center). See how to find us on the contact page.
FAQ
What causes rosacea?
Rosacea is a common disease that is characterized by pronounced heredity and impaired regulation of blood supply to the skin of the face.
What diet is followed for rosacea?
It is necessary to avoid foods and drinks that lead to dilation of blood vessels and redness of the face. So are spicy foods and alcohol, especially red wine.
What is the most effective treatment for rosacea?
The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the disease. It can consist only of appropriate cosmetics and creams in the initial stages or systemic antibiotics and retinoids in severe forms.