Flushing of the skin, visible blood vessels, bumps, and persistent redness are all visible signs of rosacea. The appearance of rosacea can affect a person’s self-image and make them uncomfortable. That being said, rosacea affects more than just appearance. It can cause symptoms like swelling of the skin, raised red patches of skin, stinging or burning skin, irritation of the eyes, and the thickening of the skin. Let’s take a closer look at what rosacea is and what causes it so you can decide if rosacea treatment is right for you.

Causes of Rosacea

The exact causes of rosacea are unknown. However, there are some common causes that experts believe cause rosacea.

Autoimmune Conditions

While rosacea is often confused as an autoimmune disease, that is not true. However, this misconception exists because of a common correlation between existing autoimmune and rosacea. It is more common for people with rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, celiac disease, and other autoimmune conditions to develop rosacea compared to the general population. Autoimmune conditions often cause inflammation issues across the body. We do know that rosacea is sensitive to inflammation and will flare up. So while we don’t know if autoimmune conditions cause rosacea, there is a strong correlation.

Skin Mites

Skin mites, called Demodex, live on the vast majority of the population’s skin. Demodex primarily lives on the face and the scalp. They live in your hair follicles and are usually harmless. It is believed that these skin mites can act as a primary irritant for rosacea. There is also a popular belief that it is the bacteria associated with Demodex, bacillus oleronius, that is the source of irritation.

H. Pylori Bacteria

H. pylori is a type of bacteria that infects your stomach and is a common cause of stomach ulcers. However, people rarely know they have an infection because they don’t get sick from it. Studies have shown that infection of H. pylori can lead to rosacea.

Seeking Treatment

Taking care of your skin always takes dedication. However, it can be incredibly difficult to care for your skin with rosacea. That’s why our staff at Dermatology Consultants of Short Hills provides rosacea treatment options to help you reach your skin goals. Our team of doctors can asses your rosacea and help find treatments that will be effective and comfortable and get you results. If you’re experiencing rosacea, then contact Dermatology Consultants of Short Hills at 973-232-6245 today.