Rosacea Treatment – Knoxville Institute of Dermatology

The National Rosacea Society estimates more than 16 million Americans are affected by Rosacea. There is no cure for this poorly understood skin disorder, but a wide variety of treatments are available to control the signs and symptoms of this burdensome condition. Rosacea is characterized by persistent redness, bumps or pimples and visible blood vessels on the cheeks, nose, forehead or chin. The most important factor in successful treatment of Rosacea is early diagnosis. If you or your loved one are dealing with Rosacea-like symptoms, contact Knoxville Institute of Dermatology for an evaluation today.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic rash involving the central face that most often affects those aged 30 to 60. It is common in those with fair skin, blue eyes and Celtic origins. It may be transient, recurrent or persistent and is characterized by its color, red. Although once known as “acne rosacea”, this is incorrect, as it is unrelated to acne.

What is the cause of Rosacea?

There are several theories regarding the cause of rosacea, including genetic, environmental, vascular and inflammatory factors. Skin damage due to chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation plays a part.

What are the clinical features of Rosacea?

Rosacea results in red spots (papules) and sometimes pustules. They are dome-shaped rather than pointed and unlike acne, there are no blackheads, whiteheads or nodules. Rosacea may also result in red areas, scaling (rosacea dermatitis) and swelling. Characteristics of Rosacea include:

Frequent blushing or flushing
A red face due to persistent redness and/or prominent blood vessels – telangiectasia (the first stage or erythematotelangiectatic rosacea)
Red papules and pustules on the nose, forehead, cheeks and chin often follow (inflammatory or papulopustular rosacea); rarely, the trunk and upper limbs may also be affected
Dry and flaky facial skin
Aggravation by sun exposure and hot and spicy food or drink (anything that reddens the face)
Sensitive skin: burning and stinging, especially in reaction to make-up, sunscreens and other facial creams
Red, sore or gritty eyelid margins including papules and styes (posterior blepharitis), and sore or tired eyes (conjunctivitis, keratitis, episcleritis) – ocular rosacea
Enlarged unshapely nose with prominent pores (sebaceous hyperplasia) and fibrous thickening – rhinophyma
Firm swelling of other facial areas including the eyelids – blepharophyma
Persistent redness and swelling or solid oedema of the upper face due to lymphatic obstruction – Morbihan disease

What is the differential diagnosis of Rosacea?

Rosacea may occasionally be confused with or accompanied by other facial rashes including:

Acne vulgaris
Steroid rosacea
Perioral dermatitis
Rosacea fulminans
Seborrheic dermatitis
Irritant contact dermatitis

How is Rosacea diagnosed?

In most cases, no investigations are required and the diagnosis of rosacea is made clinically. Occasionally a skin biopsy is performed, which shows chronic inflammation and vascular changes.

What is the treatment for Rosacea?

Where possible, reduce factors causing facial flushing.
Avoid oil-based facial creams. Use water-based make-up.
Protect yourself from the sun. Use light oil-free facial sunscreens.
Keep your face cool to reduce flushing: minimize your exposure to hot or spicy foods, alcohol, hot showers and baths and warm rooms.
Laser therapy
Antibiotics
Oral and topical medications

WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY

I have already recommended Dr Raman to a friend. The timeliness getting an appointment, the Covid safe setting, the efficiency of the staff along with the expertise of the doctor are reasons I will return and refer.

M. H.

I had a recurring dermatological condition for several and a series of dermatologists as a result. And yet until I met Dr. Wright, my condition remained undiagnosed and it turned out to be potentially life-threatening. I am so fortunate to have found him and I would not go to anyone else and recommend him often.

D. B.

Timely, professional, thorough and took the time to explain the procedure being done and options for upcoming needed procedure. Steps were taken to protect employees and patients against Covid challenges. I had basil cell removed three times and in different states. This office is the best hands down.

S. J.

This office is very clean, professional and I never have to wait excessive time for my appointment. Dr. Rahman is so thorough and caring and kind. I have had Mohs surgery with Dr. Wright on my face and you cannot even see where the scar is. This is the place to go for your dermatology needs.

C. P.

I’ll be 77 years old in a month and this was my first real skin check-up. I sort of had one a few years ago at a different place but was turned off by their emphasis on selling cosmetic treatments when I wanted to know about skin disease. Dr. Bakke and his assistant seemed to give me a thorough check, burned off some spots, took.a few biopsies, and I was good to go.

R. G.

Everyone is so nice and friendly…the office staff is caring, professional and an asset to your institution. Even though I’ve been going to your office for a few years this is the first time I saw Kegan Reilly. He was very professional and very knowledgeable. He explained everything to me in detail and made me very comfortable in an uncomfortable situation. I highly recommend him for anyone who needs to see a dermatologist. He is definitely an exceptional medical provider.

D. S.

I will be forever grateful to Dr. Anderson for her careful skin exam and detection of the start of a melanoma on my arm. She is pleasant, professional, and kind– everything you would want in a dermatologist.

E. T.

Dr. Anderson and her staff are excellent. I have been a client for several years. I have received the best care. Dr. Anderson is excellent in discovering and treating. problems. Dr. Anderson listens and is honest.

M. J.

The whole experience was a positive one… getting an appointment to see someone relatively soon, receiving several reminders, the (covid) health protections at the office, and the very pleasant and knowledgeable care of Lindsey Best FNP, at my appointment.

P. P.

Sent email & text to inform of arrival procedures, took proper covid-19 protocol to ensure my safety and that of staff and other patients. Doctor and nurse took time to explain what would happen during visit and answered all questions. Explained proper home care of procedure site, made sure I knew how and informed to call office if any problems or questions. Everyone was very helpful, friendly and professional.

D. C.