 Widespread
Facial Disorder Soars with the Temperature
(NAPSI)-While warmer weather makes more than a few people's
faces turn red, not all of them are getting a sunburn. According
to a new survey, heat and sun exposure top the list of factors
that often trigger rosacea, an embarrassing but treatable
facial disorder now estimated to affect more than 14 million
Americans.
Early rosacea is sometimes mistaken for a
sunburn
Rosacea is growing especially common as the baby boom generation
enters the most susceptible years. The condition typically
strikes at any time after age 30 as a temporary redness on
the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead that might be mistaken
for a sunburn.
Over time the redness becomes more persistent and severe,
and tiny blood vessels may become visible. Left untreated,
bumps and pimples often develop and, in severe cases, the
nose may become bumpy and enlarged from excess tissue. In
some cases, the eyes are also affected, feeling gritty and
appearing watery or bloodshot.
Fortunately, this widespread disorder can be effectively
controlled with medical therapy and lifestyle changes to avoid
the factors that may aggravate the condition.
In a survey of 1,066 rosacea patients by the National Rosacea
Society, sun exposure was the number one trigger, cited by
81 percent of the respondents. The other leading triggers
were hot weather, reported by 75 percent and emotional stress,
which affected 79 percent.
"A tremendous array of everyday activities can aggravate
rosacea in various individuals," said Dr. Joel Bamford,
a dermatologist and associate professor of family practice
at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. "Identifying and
avoiding the things that affect each person is crucial to
managing this conspicuous and potentially life-disruptive
disorder."
Other trigger factors were also found. Wind caused flare-ups
for 57 percent, while heavy exercise was mentioned by 56 percent,
and alcohol by 52 percent. Hot baths affected 51 percent and
cold weather was noted by 46 percent. Spicy foods were listed
by 45 percent, and humidity affected 44 percent. Indoor heat
and skin-care products both were cited by 41 percent, and
heated beverages caused flare-ups for 36 percent.
The good news is that 90 percent of the respondents said
their condition improved once they began avoiding their specific
trigger factors.
People who suspect they may have this condition are urged
to see a dermatologist or other qualified physician for diagnosis
and appropriate medical treatment.
For more information on rosacea or how to avoid rosacea triggers,
write the National Rosacea Society, 800 S. Northwest Highway,
Suite 200, Barrington, Illinois 60010, call 1-888-NO-BLUSH,
visit www.rosacea.org
or e-mail rosaceas@aol.com.
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