What is Rosacea?
Rosacea (pronounced roh-ZAY-sha) is a common but little-known disorder of the facial skin that affects an estimated 14 million
Americans -- and most of them don't know it. In fact, while rosacea is becoming increasingly widespread as the populous
baby boom generation enters the most susceptible ages, a Gallup survey found that 78 percent of Americans have no knowledge
of this condition, including how to recognize it and what to do about it.
Rosacea cannot be cured, but it can be controlled.
Click here to learn more about this conspicuous condition
Because of its red-faced, acne-like effects on personal appearance,
however, it can cause significant psychological, social and occupational problems if left untreated.
In recent surveys
by the National Rosacea Society, more than 76 percent of rosacea patients said their condition had lowered their self-confidence
and self-esteem, and 52 percent reported it had caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements. Among rosacea
patients with severe symptoms, nearly 70 percent said the disorder had adversely affected their professional interactions,
and nearly 30 percent said they had even missed work because of their condition.
While the cause of rosacea is unknown
and there is no cure, today medical help is available that can control the signs and symptoms of this potentially life-disruptive
disorder. Any one of the following warning signs is a signal to see a dermatologist or other knowledgeable physician for diagnosis
and appropriate treatment before the signs and symptoms become increasingly severe:
To
