I have always had a problem with blushing and a high colour especially when I drink a lot of coffee. I have recently developed spots over my cheeks, forehead and nose. It looks like acne but as I am in my early 30s is this likely?
Conventional remedy
You may have a condition known as acne rosacea. This is an inflammation that affects the skin, especially on the forehead, nose and cheeks. It can affect any age group but is most common among people in their 30s and 40s. Women, Celts and north-western Europeans seem to be more prone to developing it. The cause is unknown but those who experience blushing or flushing related to alcohol, caffeine or emotion seem to be more likely to develop the condition.
From time to time the inflamed skin becomes swollen, with spots and pustules (pus spots) appearing.
The small blood vessels in the skin appear to overreact to different triggers and over time this can lead to broken vessels and permanent redness. In chronic cases, the nose can become enlarged and distorted. Acne rosacea is not contagious and does not appear to be inherited. Flare-ups can be caused by exposure to the sun, alcohol, caffeine or certain foods. Mild cases respond to treatment with an application of antibiotic cream or ointment. Oral antibiotics such as tetracycline are effective in the treatment of swelling and spots. A gel which contains the antibiotic metronidazole also produces good results. Mild steroid creams can be prescribed, but should be used for a short period only. Strong steroid creams should be avoided as they can make the condition worse.
Antibiotic treatment should not be taken if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Some individuals may develop side-effects from long-term use of antibiotics, but they usually resolve once treatment has ceased. Any side-effects should be reported to your doctor. If your condition does not respond to first line treatment, your family doctor will refer you to a dermatologist for their opinion.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative remedy
Your condition is most likely to be rosacea or acne rosacea. This is a relatively common chronic skin condition which looks like acne but usually occurs in those over 30. Factors to consider include local infections, gastrointestinal disorders (particularly low stomach acids) but also poor gall bladder function and B-vitamin deficiencies. Poor eliminatory function (liver or renal) and stress may also be factors.
The main focus of nutritional therapy is to support the digestive system, particularly the absorption and eliminatory functions of the liver and kidneys. Any suspect food intolerances (such as wheat and dairy) need to be removed from the diet as this will reduce the load on the digestive tract.
Food intolerances may also be associated with migraine headaches which are known to be common in those with rosacea.
Foods which worsen symptoms also need to be removed. These usually are alcohol, coffee, tea, spicy foods, hot drinks and any other food which you know exacerbates the problem.
Taking digestive enzymes with meals may increase absorption. Have one or two mouthfuls of food, then take the enzyme, then finish the meal.
Taking a little apple cider vinegar with meals may help increase hydrochloric acid levels and thus further aid absorption.
Foods to include in the diet are pineapple or papaya juices (which have high levels of enzymes) and foods rich in B nutrients such as whole grains, fish, poultry, fruit and vegetables. Eating fruit and vegetables raw or lightly cooked helps maintain the nutrient and enzyme content. Keep drinks and foods separate and drink at least two litres of water a day.
Recommended supplements - which should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified therapist or medical practitioner - include B complex, Riboflavin (never take Bs on their own for long periods of time), Acidophilus, Betaine HCL and digestive enzymes.
Finally, a gentle detox programme under trained supervision may prove helpful in eliminating waste and getting the liver and kidneys to work better.
Maria Costello
Maria Costello is a nutritionist based in Limerick. She is a member of the British Association of Nutritional Therapists (0044 870-6061284)
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