What is the Rosacea Disease ?

Rosacea, also known as acne rosacea or by various other names, is a skin condition that primarily affects the central part of the face, including the nose, chin, forehead, and cheeks. It starts with episodes of flushing and burning and can progress to persistent redness, an increase in visible capillaries, swelling, and tissue overgrowth.

Triggers for facial flushing include sun exposure, emotional stress, sudden temperature changes (like washing with hot or cold water), cold winds, intense exercise, and alcohol consumption. Certain medications or cosmetics can also provoke flushing, as well as spicy foods and hot beverages such as coffee and tea.

How Does Rosacea Progress?

Rosacea is a slowly progressing condition and typically occurs in phases (flare-ups). There are four clinical stages:

1. Stage 1: Repeated episodes of burning and flushing in the face.
2. Stage 2: Persistent redness in the central part of the face and the formation of small visible blood vessels on the nose and cheeks.
3. Stage 3: The redness becomes darker and more persistent, and small red bumps or pimples (unlike blackheads or whiteheads) appear on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin.
4. Stage 4: Burning or continuous sensitivity in the eyes (ocular rosacea) and a red, swollen nose (rhinophyma).