The Emotional Toll of Rosacea
Rosacea is a relatively common skin condition, considering that over 14 million people in the United States are currently affected. Despite its commonality, many people are still afraid to show the extent of their reddened faces. For some rosacea sufferers, the emotional impact of their skin condition is just as bad, if not worse than, the physical symptoms.
Rosacea Symptoms
Individuals with rosacea have the characteristic red flush that is triggered by a wide variety of factors — from spicy foods to stressful events to a sudden change in temperature. This red flush typically develops on the cheeks. Other symptoms include the appearance of spider-like veins in the face, a bulbous nose, irritable eyes, and acne-like sores.
How Rosacea Affects People
Although the aforementioned symptoms may be harmless, the results of a recent survey by the National Rosacea Society suggest that rosacea sufferers experience negative emotions including anxiety, embarrassment, and reduced self-esteem.
In a press release, the National Rosacea Society revealed that rosacea, regardless of severity, had a negative impact on its sufferers. Here’s an excerpt of the press release:
“Of the total patients surveyed, 90 percent said that rosacea’s effect on their personal appearance had lowered their self-esteem and self-confidence, and 88 percent said they had suffered embarrassment. They also reported a wide range of other negative feelings, including frustration, cited by 76 percent; anxiety and helplessness, each noted by 54 percent; depression, 43 percent; anger, 34 percent; and isolation, 32 percent. Fifty-two percent of the respondents said they had avoided face-to-face contact because of the disorder.”
Treatment of rosacea at K Plastic Surgery
As a chronic condition with a poorly understood cause, treatment for rosacea at K Plastic Surgery is personalized and is primarily geared towards identifying the triggers and consequently avoiding them through lifestyle modifications. Additionally, a combination of topical and oral medications has also been shown to work in reducing the severity of symptoms such as those unsightly pimple-like bumps. Pulsed-dye lasers and the IPL Photofacial can also significantly reduce the appearance of spider-like veins by targeting the underlying blood vessels without disturbing the surrounding tissue. Facials and specialized skincare products can also be used to soothe red, irritated skin and restore a clearer, glowing complexion.
Schedule a Consultation
For a personalized rosacea treatment plan, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at K Plastic Surgery. Dr. Kayastha is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has helped many patients in Albany, NY, and the surrounding communities find relief from their uncomfortable rosacea symptoms.