Everyone wants to feel good about their skin and appearance. That’s why the extreme redness, bumps, and swelling caused by rosacea can be so disheartening and embarrassing for men and women alike. Rosacea usually affects the face and is extremely difficult to hide, so it’s a priority for many sufferers to find effective treatment as soon as possible.
Rosacea is a common skin condition that affects millions of people. A 2018 study estimated that a whopping 415 million people suffer from rosacea worldwide. But even though rosacea is very common, many people still don’t fully understand this frustrating skin problem. antibiotics for rosacea
What Can Trigger a Rosacea Flare-Up?
Rosacea is a facial condition that causes redness and facial spider veins. Spider veins are tiny damaged veins that are visible beneath the surface of the skin. When these veins congregate, they can cause red, blue or purple discoloration.
In the case of rosacea, skin redness and visible veins are the main symptoms. Rosacea is often hereditary, but its exact cause isn’t known.
There can be several different triggers for this condition. These triggers differ from one person to another, making the issue a tricky one to manage. Patients must pay careful attention to lifestyle patterns to determine what causes rosacea flare-ups for them. Common triggers include:
- Alcohol
- Spicy or hot food
- Sun
- Wind
- Physical activity
- Stress and Anxiety
Why Is Stress a Cause of Flare-Ups?
Stress and anxiety are common triggers of rosacea symptoms. The connection is likely based on body chemistry. Stress causes several chemical reactions in the body that can create skin symptoms. Hormones like adrenaline and cortisol release when we’re stressed, causing an imbalance to our delicately balanced endocrine system. Rosacea’s cause is connected to these chemical reactions, so stress can be a problem for many patients.
It’s important to manage stress and anxiety before they get out of hand. Self-care is vitally important. People struggling with rosacea should prioritize healthy habits to help reduce stress. There are many things you can do to try to lower the amount of stress in your life or to manage stress as it comes up. Here are a few examples:
Eat a healthy diet. What you put into your body affects your stress levels. Eating a balanced, healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil can help you manage stress and feel a whole lot better.
Try meditation. Meditation is not some complicated or mystical practice. All you have to do is take a few minutes to become conscious of your breathing. Meditation has been found to help with all kinds of physical and mental problems, so adding this practice to your routine is a great idea. It might also have the added benefit of helping you avoid rosacea flare-ups. Many smartphone apps can help you meditate if you’re not sure how to begin.
Avoid overindulging. Many of us have less-than-healthy coping mechanisms for our stress. Things like alcohol, caffeine, sweets, and smoking are very harmful to your health and can make your stress worse, not better.
Get outside and move. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors is a wonderful way to combat stress. Getting more exercise is also a good way to lower your stress levels. This can be as easy as stepping out your front door and taking a walk. Breathing in some fresh air and being in nature is a tried and true way to reduce stress.
Seek help through counseling. Our mental health is every bit as important as our physical health. Just like you’d see a doctor for a physical problem, it’s a good idea to see a professional to help with your mood, stress, and mental health. If you think you are suffering from depression or anxiety that’s causing difficulties in your daily life, seeking the help of a licensed mental health professional is always a good idea.
Does Rosacea Ever Go Away?
Unfortunately, rosacea does not have a permanent cure. However, that doesn’t mean that you have to deal with aggravating symptoms on your own. A qualified specialist can help you manage the condition. Many rosacea patients can significantly improve redness, pustules, and other visible skin bumps with the right treatment.
Buckingham Center provides first-rate care for Austin-area rosacea patients and our staff takes pride in helping people to feel good about their skin. Dr. Buckingham offers several different treatments based on the severity of your condition. After examining you, the doctor can work with you to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Contact Dr. Buckingham For Help With Rosacea Today
Rosacea may not have a cure, but you don’t have to suffer flare-ups alone. Dr. Buckingham’s Austin office offers a variety of treatments to help you manage your condition and eliminate the tell-tale signs of rosacea. Our goal is to help you live free from discomfort and to feel confident about your skin again. If you are dealing with rosacea and would like to learn more about how our services can help you, contact us to schedule an appointment.
