Symptoms and triggers of rosacea

American Academy of Dermatology notes that rosacea is a common skin disease that typically begins with a tendency to blush or flush more easily than other people. Over the years, many notable public figures have had rosacea, including former American president Bill Clinton and the late Diana, Princess of Wales.

Rosacea can cause a number of symptoms, and recognizing those symptoms and what might be causing them can help people overcome the condition.

Symptoms of rosacea

The AAD notes that there are so many signs and symptoms of rosacea that scientists ultimately categorized them by four subtypes.

■ Subtype 1: Subtype 1 is characterized by facial redness, flushing and visible broken blood vessels, sometimes referred to as “spider veins.”

■ Subtype 2: This subtype is marked by acne-like breakouts, usually where the skin is very red. These breakouts tend to come and go. People with subtype 2 rosacea may experience oily skin and also suffer from spider veins. Raised patches of skin known as plaques also may be present.

Skin may sting and burn for individuals with subtypes 1 or 2. In addition, very sensitive skin is hallmark of both subtypes.

■ Subtype 3: The AAD notes the rarity of subtype 3, which is characterized by thickening skin. Subtype 3 is often preceded by another subtype. Bumpy texture to the skin, thickening skin on the nose, visible broken blood vessels, and large pores also are symptomatic of subtype 3.

■ Subtype 4: Subtype 4 occurs when people get rosacea in their eyes. In such instances, the eyes may exhibit one or more of many symptoms, including a watery or bloodshot appearance; a gritty feeling which makes affected persons feel as though they have sand in their eyes; burning or stinging eyes; very dry eyes; itchy eyes; sensitivity to light; and visible broken blood vessels on an eyelid.

Triggers of rosacea

The AAD indicates that the skin is so sensitive that many things can contribute to rosacea. That’s why it’s so important that individuals and their skin doctors determine what may trigger their rosacea to flare up. Common triggers include sunlight, hairspray, heat, stress, alcohol, and spicy foods. In addition, the AAD notes that wind and cold, certain medications, exercise, and some makeup have been identified as rosacea triggers.

Rosacea is a common skin disease that can be painful but also manageable. More information about rosacea is available at www.aad.org.