Rosacea is a common, long-term skin condition, characterised by facial redness, swelling and dilated blood vessels.
Data on the prevalence of rosacea is rare and controversial, although it is estimated that around 0.09 per cent to 22 per cent of people have rosacea.
Symptoms
Most rosacea sufferers go through bouts of intense symptoms, followed by periods when their symptoms are relatively unnoticeable. Symptoms of rosacea include:
- Flushing and redness of the face, triggered by: sun exposure, uncomfortable situations (blushing), hot drinks, spicy foods, or other triggers
- Visibly burst blood vessels
- Sensitive skin
- Burnt, stinging skin
- Dry, scaling skin
Causes
The mechanisms involved in causing rosacea are currently unknown, although several causes have been proposed. Various potential triggers have been suggested to exacerbate the condition, and these include:
- Alcohol
- Dietary components
- Exposure to sunlight
- Extreme exercise
- Extremely hot or cold climates
- Specific medication
- Strong winds
It is thought that abnormalities in the blood vessels of the face, microscopic mites living in the skin of the face, H. Pylori bacteria and genetics all play a role in causing rosacea.
Diet for rosacea
Although no foods cause or cure rosacea, many people find that modifying their diet can help them to control the severity of their symptoms, and stop triggering them. These include:
- Alcohol: red wine, beer, vodka, whiskey, gin and champagne
- Spicy foods
- Dairy products: yoghurt, chocolate and milk
- Citrus fruits
- Foods high in histamines: ready meals, pickled and canned foods, smoked or processed meats and shellfish