ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS FOR ROSACEA

Rosacea (or acne rosacea as it is sometimes called) is an inflammatory skin disease that affects approximately 14 million Americans between the age of 30 and 60. Rosacea is not true acne, but rather an inflammation of the face, nose, neck or chest that results in red, bumpy, oily skin.

Rosacea is more common in fair-skinned than dark-skinned people and is more common in women than in men. Because it looks like acne, it can cause substantial psychological, social and occupational problems if it is not treated.

Rosacea generally begins during a person’s thirties or forties. It starts with a mild pink blush that doesn’t go away. There is no cure for rosacea. But if you treat it early, it may never progress any further or might even recede a bit. However, in advanced cases, it can induce permanent thickening and redness, particularly on the nose. Fortunately, there are a number of alternative treatments for rosacea.

Causes

Rosacea has specific triggers that differ from person to person. The most common triggers are alcohol, hot liquids, coffee, spicy or fatty foods, extreme temperatures, sun exposure, harsh wind, and stress.

It’s crucial to minimize contact with these triggers, because they make the blood vessels expand. Over time, these vessels become incapable of contracting properly, and they allow too much blood to flow to the affected area. Thus the red and bumpy skin.

Nearly all skin conditions are caused by some kind of digestive trouble, and rosacea is no exception. Many rosacea sufferers possess low levels of stomach acid, which prevent proper digestion. Sluggish bowels and constipation may also have a similar result.

Treatments

Conventional treatment for rosacea involves antibiotics, which have a minimal effect and which must be taken continuously. Although persons with severe cases that may lead to disfigurement might wish to consider medication, most people will be better off attempting to avoid their personal triggers and improving their digestion.

Researchers have proved that a diet rich in multiple necessary vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin “A”, has benefits for rosacea sufferers.

Always apply a high SPF-factor sun block when exposed to sunlight and wind.

Recommended Foods

Eat lots of raw foods. In their raw state, vegetables, fruits, nuts, sprouts, and seeds all have enzymes that aid you convert food into the nutrients that are needed for skin and circulatory health.

Green leafy veggies are particularly beneficial for rosacea patients, because they’re a splendid source of trace minerals.

Drink several glasses of fresh vegetable juices a day. If you have rosacea, it’s probable that your digestive system isn’t processing food thoroughly, and juices are a potent way to deliver nutrients straight to your bloodstream.

Make certain your diet includes plenty of fiber.

Have cold-water fish from a clean source several times a week, and eat flaxseeds (1 to 2 tablespoons, with 10 ounces of water) each day.

Some Foods To Avoid

Avoid foods that make you flush.

Steer clear of spicy food, caffeine, and alcohol.

Sugar and iodized salt may also dilate your blood vessels and worsen your condition.

Be careful of food and drinks that are hot in temperature.

Finally, stay away from red meat and fried, greasy foods. This will improve your digestion.

Conclusion

Some adults have what they think is acne, but it may be the less common acne rosacea. Remember, it is similar to look at, but the skin is usually flushed and becomes thickened. Acne rosacea is frequently stress-related and is a potential threat to your vision. So I suggest you get a correct diagnosis.

Please note: This article is for information only and should not be used in lieu of seeing your healthcare practitioner.

Your friend,

Janet Esther

Resources For This Article:

www.rosacea.org

James F. Balch. Prescription for Natural Cures. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Son, Inc., 2004.

www.treatmentforacnescarring.com

Suggested Reading:

Natural Acne Remedies For Adults

Common Causes Of Acne

James F. Balch. Prescription for Natural Cures. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Son, Inc., 2004.