Rosacea can cause redness, bumps and/or swelling, especially on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin and can look similar to acne. Unlike acne, however, people with Rosacea don’t get blackheads but do get dilated blood vessels.
Rosacea is a chronic condition and rarely resolves without treatment. Mild Rosacea can be limited to mild redness of the cheeks. However, in the most severe forms, the skin overlying the nose can become permanently swollen and red (called rhinophyma) because of dilated blood vessels and abnormal enlargement of oil glands. Other potential symptoms of Rosacea include eye irritation (burning, stinging, grittiness, and/or dryness) and sties.
Rosacea treatment options vary widely, depending on symptoms. Facial redness and acne-like lesions are often treated with oral antibiotics and topical medications. The more severe forms of Rosacea also have a variety of treatment options. Your Laser Derma Care Center physician can discuss your individual concerns about treatment.