Rosacea

Rosacea

Rosacea is a common rash usually occurring on the face.  It predominantly affects middle-aged and fair-skinned people. It is more common in women but tends to be more severe in men. It is a chronic condition and, in any individual, the severity tends to come and go.

The cause of rosacea is unknown, but the factors that trigger rosacea cause inflammation and readiness of the blood vessels in the skin of the face to dilate.

Alcohol, exercise, high and low temperatures, hot drinks, spicy foods and stress can trigger and make rosacea worse. It can be worsened by natural sunlight.

Rosacea signs and symptoms

Rosacea tends to affect the cheeks, forehead, chin and nose, and is characterised by flushing and redness, dilated blood vessels, small red bumps and pus-filled spots known as papules and pustules.  There may also be uncomfortable inflammation of the surface of the eyes and eyelids.

Some people with rosacea have eye symptoms (including red, itchy, sore eyes and eyelids, a gritty feeling and sensitivity to light).

A few patients with rosacea may develop more serious eye problems, such as painful inflammation involving the front part of the eye (rosacea keratitis) and this may cause blurred vision.

It is important that you consult your doctor if you develop symptoms affecting the eyes.