The underlying reasons behind rosacea can vary from person to person, though there are a few main causes and some common contributing factors. One possible cause of rosacea is high levels of the cathelicidin peptide, which has been noted in many people with this condition. Other people with rosacea redness suffer from an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the small intestine. Additionally, rosacea redness may be caused or worsened by a number of factors like hot weather, excessive exposure to the sun, or emotional stresses. Rosacea is a skin condition that results in the inflammation of various areas of the face, leading to a characterizing redness that is sometimes accompanied by visible blood vessels or excessive blushing.
Root causes of rosacea redness can sometimes be treated. In cases where an abundance of the stratum corneum tryptic enzyme (SCTE) and cathelicidin peptides are the cause, antibiotics may be effective in treating rosacea. This may be due to the fact that SCTEs can sometimes be effectively inhibited by certain antibiotics. In other cases where an overgrowth of fauna in the small intestine is the cause of rosacea, particular antibiotics may also be effective. This is due to the ability of targeted antibiotics to reduce the population of undesired small intestinal bacteria.
Rosacea is sometimes caused by environmental or emotional factors. In these cases, rosacea redness may be managed with topical anti-inflammatory medications. While this does not treat the cause of the inflammation, it can help reduce rosacea redness. Avoiding certain factors that can worsen the condition may also help. Staying out of the sun, especially when it is very hot out, and reducing stress may reduce or shorten breakouts.
The application of anti-inflammatory medicine may also help prevent other lasting damage from rosacea. When the condition is left untreated over long periods of time, it can lead to permanent tissue damage. A swollen nose caused by rosacea is typically known as a rhinophyma, and may interfere with sight or breathing. Untreated rosacea can also cause permanent swelling in other areas of the face, and may be very serious if it involves the eyes.
In addition to rosacea redness, other forms of the condition can result in different symptoms. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea can be characterized by a permanent redness of certain areas of the face and an increased tendency towards blushing. Another subtype is papulopustular rosacea, which results in skin pustules or papules that can have a similar appearance to an outbreak of acne.