Rosacea is a facial skin problem that affects about 14 million Americans. While rosacea is becoming more widespread, a Gallup poll found that 78 percent of Americans are unaware of the condition, including how to recognize it or what to do about it. The main feature of rosacea is the red butterfly face, also known as WC Fields acne appearance.

While the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no medical cure, help is available that can manage the symptoms of this potentially life-threatening disorder. Any of the following warning signs is a signal to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment before symptoms become increasingly severe:

* Redness of the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead.
* Small blood vessels visible on the face.
* Bumps or pimples on the face.
* Watery or irritated eyes.

What triggers rosacea?

Food

* Yogurt
* Sour cream
* Cheese (except cottage cheese)
* Chocolate
* Vanilla
* Soy sauce
* Yeast extract (bread is fine)
* Vinegar
* Eggplant
* Avocados
* Spinach
* Broadleaf beans and pods, including lime, navy, or peas
* Citrus fruits, including tomatoes, bananas, red plums, grapes, or figs.
* Spicy and thermally hot foods
* Foods rich in histamine

Climate

* Sun
* Cold
* Humidity
* Intense heat

Drugs

* Vasodilators
* Topical steroids

Drinks

* Alcohol, especially red wine, beer, bourbon, gin, vodka, or champagne
* Hot beverages, including hot cider, hot chocolate, coffee or tea.

Emotional influences

* Stress
* Anxiety

skin care products

* Some cosmetics and hair sprays, especially those containing alcohol or fragrances.
* Hydroalcoholic substances or acetone
* Any substance that causes redness or stinging.

To help identify personal triggers, rosacea patients are encouraged to keep a diary of daily activities or events and relate them to flare-ups they may experience. A Rosacea Journal brochure and a lifestyle management brochure, “Coping With Rosacea,” are available free of charge by writing to the National Rosacea Society, 800 S. Northwest Highway, Suite 200, Barrington, IL 60010 or its toll free number at 1-888-NO-BLUSH.

Holistic solution

With NAET therapy, the body can naturally reprogram itself so that it does not react to the many triggers of rosacea. “Patients tend to prefer mild natural solutions to eliminate rosacea triggers, rather than long-term medications,” according to Dr. Mike.