ROCASEA: ITS EFFECTS ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Rosacea does not affect just the skin; it also significantly reduce the individual’s quality of life. Many affected persons have reported problems at work, in their marriages, as well as relating with other people.

Surveys and studies have reported that living with rosacea can cause the following:

• Feelings of embarrassment & frustration: According to some surveys conducted by the National Rosacea Society, about 41% of people who have rosacea always avoid public contact and social engagements.
• Worry: Many affected persons worry that their rosacea will become scarred. People also worry about the side effects of rosacea medicines.
• Low self-esteem According to some surveys conducted by the National Rosacea Society, almost 70% of people living with rosacea said they experience low self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Work-related issues According to some surveys conducted by the National Rosacea Society, 70% of people affected by severe rosacea revealed that it affects their interactions at work. About 30% of them miss work.

• Anxiety & depression: Affected people experience anxiety and depression.

Treatment can significantly improve a person’s quality of life.

ROSACEA: WHO CAN GET INFECTED?

The following people are at a higher risk of having rosacea:

• Those between the ages of 30 & 50.
• Fair-skinned individuals.
• From Celtic or Scandinavian descent
• Family history of rosacea or severe acne
• Possibility of having acne

Women are at higher risk than men to get rosacea. People of all races and colours can get rosacea. Children are also liable to get rosacea.

ROSACEA: THE CAUSES

• Family history: Many persons who are affected with rosacea have family members who have previously been affected. There is the possibility of inheriting genes for rosacea.
• The immune system may play a role: Research has revealed that most people living with acne-like rosacea react to bacillus oleronius. This reaction causes the overreaction of their immune system. Scientists are yet to confirm whether this can certainly cause rosacea.
• An intestinal bug: H pylori is a common bug in people living with rosacea. Scientists are yet to prove that H pylori can cause rosacea.
• Demodex may play a role: Demodex is a mite that lives on the nose and cheeks, and these are common body areas where rosacea appears. Several studies found that people living with rosacea have a large number of this mite on their skin.