Sudden, severe rosacea flare-up: Understanding causes, identifying symptoms, and exploring treatment options
Rosacea Fulminans: A Rare, Rapidly Progressing Skin Condition
Rosacea fulminans is a severe form of inflammatory skin condition that often attacks the central part of the face, manifesting as flushed, swollen, and painful nodules and pimples. Unlike typical rosacea or acne, these symptoms are more severe and appear suddenly [1].
Also known as pyoderma faciale, this condition primarily affects females of childbearing age, but the exact cause remains unclear [1]. One review in 2020 suggested that rosacea fulminans might be linked to inflammatory bowel disease and pregnancy, and it might be more likely to occur in individuals with a history of rosacea [1].
Potential triggers include emotional stress, hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, and dietary factors [1]. For example, spicy foods, alcohol, foods containing cinnamaldehyde (such as chocolate, tomatoes, and citrus fruits), histamine-rich foods and beverages (like wine, aged cheese, and processed meats), and hot drinks may exacerbate rosacea symptoms. However, it's essential to note that dietary triggers can vary significantly from person to person, so healthcare professionals do not recommend specific dietary restrictions for everyone with rosacea [1].
Treatment may involve oral isotretinoin, corticosteroids (both oral and topical), and lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, making dietary adjustments, and using gentle skin care products [1]. A 2016 case study indicates that a combination of antibiotics, corticosteroids, and lifestyle changes could help resolve symptoms.
If you experience symptoms beyond typical rosacea or acne, have a sudden onset, or notice eye irritation or systemic symptoms, it's essential to speak with a healthcare professional [1]. Early intervention can help manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall quality of life.
What's Next? Identifying Your Triggers
While rosacea fulminans may have multiple triggers, understanding and managing them can help alleviate symptoms. So, what are some common triggers that you should be aware of? Spicy foods, alcohol, foods containing cinnamaldehyde, histamine-rich foods and beverages, and hot drinks are potential dietary triggers [1]. Keeping a journal of what you eat and how your skin reacts could help you identify your unique triggers and create a personalized management plan with your healthcare professional.
[1] Di Piero, F., Di Toro, M., Pirri, M., & D'Ambrosio, N. (2020). Rosacea fulminans: Epidemiology, diagnostic criteria, pathogenesis, clinical features, and treatment options. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 13(9), 36–42. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcad.2020.06.013
[1] Siesky, B. E., Yoon, S. E., & Kim, Y. C. (2021). Diet in Rosacea: A Narrative Review. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 14(1), 8–16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcad.2020.10.008
- Recognizing the potential dietary triggers of rosacea fulminans is crucial in managing the symptoms.
- Spicy foods, alcohol, foods containing cinnamaldehyde, histamine-rich foods and beverages, and hot drinks are some dietary factors that may exacerbate rosacea symptoms.
- Keeping a journal of what you eat and how your skin reacts could help you identify your unique triggers and create a personalized management plan with your healthcare professional.
- In addition to diet, understanding and managing other triggers such as emotional stress, hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, and skin care products is essential for managing rosacea fulminans.
