If you experience frequent flare-ups of inflamed skin, you may have rosacea, which generally begins after age 30 and goes through cycles of flare-ups and remissions.  Over time, rosacea gets redder in color and small blood vessels may also appear on the face.  If left untreated, bumps and pimples may form, and the end of the nose may become swollen, red and bulbous.  It is not contagious, but there is some evidence that suggests that rosacea may be inherited. Dr. Toral Patel explains to our patients in the Chicago Loop that the inflammation caused by rosacea can affect the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead or eyelids. 

 

Chicago Loop Residents: Avoid Triggers for Rosacea

 

With each case unique there is no cure for rosacea, but our Chicago Loop dermatologist can prescribe oral antibiotics and topical medications to reduce the severity of the symptoms.  When your condition goes into remission, only topical treatments may be needed.  In severe cases, a vascular laser, intense pulsed light source or other medical devices may be used to remove any visible blood vessels and reduce excess redness and bumpiness on the nose. 

 

The National Rosacea Foundation found that the leading triggers of rosacea include:

To help reduce the incidence of flare-ups, a gentle daily skin care routine is recommended.  Your skin care routine should consist of mild, non-abrasive cleansers, soft clothes, rinsing in lukewarm water, and blotting the face dry.  Additionally, patients need to protect themselves from sun exposure by using sunscreens with SPF 15 or higher and sunblock that eliminate UVA and UVB rays. 

 

You are encouraged to keep a record of flare-ups to try and determine the lifestyle and environmental triggers that aggravate the condition.  Contact Dr. Toral Patel in the Chicago Loop for Rosacea treatment information and how to avoid certain triggers.