Rosacea is a chronic blood vessel disorder affecting the blood vessels of the face. The result is a facial rash that appears as red pimple like bumps accompanied by excessive flushing.
So what triggers the condition?
- Diet
- Lifestyle
- Exercise
- Drugs/Medicines
- Emotional changes
- Environmental changes
The triggers of Rosacea are well documented and extensive. Since Rosacea is the result of the facial blood vessels moving closer to the surface and becoming dilated it stands to reason that anything that will cause further dilatation of the vessels will worsen the condition.
Anxiety, stress and embarrassment will all cause the vessels to dilate. As will over heating the body. Saunas, hot rooms, hot and humid weather and high winds will all worsen Rosacea.
The sufferer of Rosacea must be careful when taking medications. Some drugs are specifically designed to dilate blood vessels whilst others do it as a side effect. Before starting any new medication whether a prescription or over the counter drug you should check its suitability with your doctor. Some drugs to be cautious of include steroids, morphine, thyroid medications and vaso dilators (as in those used in cardiac conditions).
Whilst these triggers are easy to identify one of the major triggers – food is not so easy to identify. Many foods can cause a flare up of Rosacea however the effects of each food are individual. Not all foods will effect everyone and infact not everyone will be effected by food.
Foods that commonly effect Rosacea include:
- dairy products
- citrus fruits
- cured meats
- peas
- beans
- soy sauce
Food additives found in beer, wine, fruit juice, frozen vegetables and shellfish may also cause problems. MSG can cause flushing in many people so its effects on the Rosacea sufferer will be more pronounced.
Caffeine also commonly causes a flare-up. However it is uncertain whether it is the caffeine itself or the temperature of the drink that causes the problem.