Inflammatory rosacea outbreaks: Causes, signs, and remedies
Whether you're dealing with a sudden onset of severe, inflamed skin on your chin, cheeks, or nose, you might be experiencing the rare and intense form of rosacea called fulminans. Similar to pyoderma faciale, rosacea fulminans pimples and nodules are more aggravated, swollen, and flushed compared to regular rosacea or acne.
Research shows potential ties between rosacea fulminans and conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and pregnancy, as well as a history of rosacea before the onset of fulminans[2]. While the exact cause remains elusive, various triggers could ignite its outbreak, such as stress, hormonal fluctuations, and certain medications[3]. Dietary factors may also affect some individuals with rosacea, specifically spicy foods, alcohol, cinnamaldehyde-containing foods like chocolate, tomatoes, and citrus fruits, histamine-rich items like wine, aged cheese, and processed meats, and hot drinks[4].
Medical treatments for rosacea fulminans can involve prescription medications like oral isotretinoin and corticosteroids, with the possibility of antibiotic assistance[5]. A case study from 2016 has shown that antibiotics combined with lifestyle changes such as stress reduction and identifying and avoiding triggers have helped manage symptoms[6].
If you find yourself wrestling with unsettling symptoms that surpass regular rosacea, quick action might be essential. A prompt visit to a dermatologist or healthcare professional can ensure an accurate diagnosis, enable prompt treatment, minimize risks of complications, and improve overall quality of life by reducing emotional distress[7]. Reach out to a healthcare professional if you experience symptoms like large, tender nodules, abscesses, significant facial discomfort, a sudden onset of symptoms, symptoms that persist or worsen even with over-the-counter medications, eye irritation or inflammation, or systemic symptoms like fever.
[1] DermNet New Zealand. (2020). Rosacea.[2] Gao, X., Ng, A., & Hua, L. (2020). Rosacea Fulminans: An Important and Distinctive Variant with Clinical, Histopathological, and Molecular Characteristics. Dermatology Research and Practice, 2020, 202096319.[3] Muriana, E. N., & Lanigan, A. M. (2021). Common and Uncommon Triggers of Rosacea Flare-ups. Practical Dermatology, 4, 12-15.[4] Muriana, E. N., & Lanigan, A. M. (2021). Common and Uncommon Triggers of Rosacea Flare-ups. Practical Dermatology, 4, 12-15.[5] Revival Research Institute. (2021). Rosacea Fulminans.[6] Sakamoto, K. A., & Wolf, D. F. (2016). Rosacea fulminans: Rapid resolution with antibiotics, topical metronidazole, and combination topical therapies. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 9(6), 26-28.[7] Revival Research Institute. (2021). Rosacea Fulminans.
- The science behind rosacea fulminans suggests potential connections with medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and pregnancy.
- Dermatology plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating skin conditions like rosacea fulminans, which can cause large, tender nodules and significant facial discomfort.
- In managing rosacea fulminans, medical treatments may involve prescription medications such as oral isotretinoin, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, often combined with lifestyle changes.
- Women's health and overall health and wellness can be impacted by skin conditions like rosacea, and prompt medical attention can help minimize complications, improve quality of life, and reduce emotional distress.
