What Is Rosacea?

What Is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that most often affects the face, but can develop on other areas of the body as well. Symptoms of rosacea include redness, inflammation, and acne-like blemishes. The condition can become worse on its own so it is best to see a dermatologist for treatment. The board-certified providers at the Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Diseases in Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, and Cumming, GA, treat rosacea so you can enjoy clearer skin. 

Symptoms of Rosacea

The early stages of Rosacea are typically associated with a tendency to blush or appear flushed more easily than others. As the condition progresses and becomes worse, other symptoms can develop, including: 

  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Acne-like breakouts
  • Bumpy or thickened skin
  • Visible blood vessels
  • Red or irritated eyes
  • Swollen eyelids 
  • Skin flushing

Rosacea symptoms most often appear on the nose and cheeks, but can also spread to the forehead and chin. For some patients, redness, acne-like bumps, and other symptoms can develop on the chest and back, as well. Since rosacea is associated with redness and acne-like breakouts, the condition is often mistaken for acne so it is important to see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. 

Causes of Rosacea

Rosacea affects individuals of all ages, from children to adults. Women tend to develop the condition more often than men. Additionally, rosacea is more noticeable in patients with fair skin, although it can affect all skin types.  

The exact cause of rosacea is unclear, but several factors have been linked to a higher risk of developing the condition. Factors that increase the probability of developing rosacea include:

  • Heredity 
  • Skin mites
  • The H pylori bug
  • The protein cathelicidin
  • An immune system that overreacts to certain bacteria
  • A history of acne problems 

Treatments for Rosacea

Rosacea can worsen over time without treatment. Fortunately, several treatments are available that can dramatically reduce the symptoms of rosacea. The experienced dermatologists at our practice in Atlanta, GA, treat rosacea and can develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. 

Rosacea treatments include laser therapy, antibiotics, and anti-acne medications. Additionally, certain factors can trigger rosacea symptoms. Identifying and avoiding these triggers helps reduce rosacea flare-ups. Some examples of common rosacea triggers include sun exposure and certain foods. 

If you are struggling with rosacea, we can help. Schedule an appointment with one of our skilled dermatologists to discuss options for treating your rosacea by calling the Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Diseases in Atlanta, GA. You can reach them in the Sandy Springs, GA, office by calling (404) 252-4333, or in Roswell, GA, at (770) 751-1133, Alpharetta, GA, at (770) 664-5225, or in Cumming, GA, by calling (770) 844-1902, so call today.

Our Locations

Sandy Springs Office

5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd.
Suite 850

Sandy Springs , GA 30342
(404) 252-4333
(404) 252-7000 fax

Roswell Office

1265 Upper Hembree Rd.
Suite 100

Roswell , GA 30076
(770) 751-1133
(770) 751-7410 fax

Alpharetta Office

3400C Old Milton Parkway
Suite 340

Alpharetta , GA 30005
(770) 664-5225
(770) 664-4337 fax

Cumming Office

327 Dahlonega Street
Suite #1501

Cumming , GA 30040
(770) 844-1902
(770) 205-3991 fax