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More Foods Act as Rosacea Triggers
July 25, 2003 -- Avoiding spicy foods has helped many people with rosacea cut down on flare-ups, but there appear to be more rosacea trigger foods than doctors once thought.
People with the condition often avoid spicy ingredients, such as hot pepper and horseradish. A new survey shows, however, that there are many more foods act as rosacea triggers. The research appears in the summer issue of Rosacea Review.
More Foods to Worry About
Five hundred rosacea patients took part in the survey. Participants reported being affected by some obvious rosacea trigger foods such as hot peppers (61%) and Mexican-style foods (52%). Some of the other foods included:
- Hot sausage (45%)
- Red pepper (53%)
- Black pepper (22%)
- Vinegar (19%)
- Paprika (15%)
- White pepper (14%)
- Garlic (11%)
Rosacea Affects 14 Million Americans
Rosacea is a relatively common, chronic skin disorder that affects an estimated 14 million Americans, according to the National Rosacea Society. It strikes usually between the ages of 30 and 50 and affects more women than men. Common symptoms include:
- Bumps or red pimples on the skin. These pimples are different from acne pimples.
- Red lines in the face caused by enlarged blood vessels
- Increased pore size
- A tendency to flush and become red that gradually becomes more noticeable and will not go away. This persistent redness is usually seen in the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose.
- Stinging or burning sensations, similar to mild sunburn
- Nasal bumps that give the appearance of a swollen nose as they increase in number
The American Academy of Dermatology says the best advice for anyone who thinks they may suffer from rosacea is to see a dermatologist as soon as possible. And though there is no cure for the condition, early treatment can control and potentially prevent the cosmetic effects of the condition.
The National Rosacea Society says the best way to figure out individual rosacea trigger foods is to keep a diary.
SOURCE: Rosacea Review, Summer 2003. News Release, National Rosacea Society. American Academy of Dermatology's RosaceaNet web site.
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