The Psychological Distress of Rosacea
As a doctor it is essential to recognise the often deep seated psychological distress that Rosacea sufferers are experiencing because of their skin problem.
A constant feeling of redness in the face can induce an enormous degree of social embarrassment particularly in certain situations. Moving from the cold to a warm indoor environment can with the change in temperature induce a sudden change in facial colour. Alcohol, certain foods and anxiety or embarrassment are well known to cause uncontrolled flushing. Even just the fear that they may go red or the constant worry that they are red can torment the lives of Rosacea suffers.
Many clients talk of social isolation and shyness as a direct result of this fear of looking red. This erythrophobia as the medical profession calls it can affect many careers as people affected may lack confidence in their place of work.
It is relationships that are often significantly affected. Ladies suffering from facial redness and flushing often need to go to great lengths to conceal the colour with a ritual of make up application. Men may also attempt to conceal the redness but this in itself leads to embarrassment and frustration. Low self esteem impacts on confidence and can lead to social isolation and withdrawal. Regimes for skin management, cream application and attempts at cosmetic cover up can assume a very prominent part of the daily lives of sufferers.