At CHEC, we understand the impact that Rosacea can have on daily life. This dedicated page aims to provide you with essential information about Rosacea. Understanding Rosacea Rosacea is a common, chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face. It’s characterised by periods of flare-ups and remissions, and while there’s no cure, treatments can effectively manage the symptoms. It typically begins after the age of 30. Common Signs and Symptoms: Rosacea can manifest in various ways, and not everyone will experience all of these symptoms: Thickened Skin (Rhinophyma): Over time, the skin on the nose can thicken, leading to an enlarged, bumpy appearance. This is more common in men. Facial Flushing: Frequent blushing or flushing that can last longer than usual. This is often one of the earliest signs. Persistent Redness: A persistent redness in the central part of the face (cheeks, nose, forehead, chin). It can sometimes resemble a sunburn. Visible Blood Vessels (Telangiectasia): Small blood vessels on the nose and cheeks become visible. Bumps and Pimples (Papules and Pustules): Small, red bumps and pus-filled spots that can look like acne. Unlike acne, blackheads are typically absent. Burning or Stinging Sensation: The affected skin may feel hot, burning, or stinging. Dry or Rough Skin: The skin on the face can feel dry, tight, and sometimes scaly. Swelling (Oedema): Facial swelling can occur. Eye Problems (Ocular Rosacea): Affects the eyes in many people, causing dryness, irritation, redness, burning, stinging, a gritty sensation, watery eyes, and sometimes swollen eyelids or styes. In severe cases, it can affect vision. When To Seek Help It’s important to seek medical advice if you experience any persistent symptoms that could be rosacea. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition and prevent it from progressing. You should see a healthcare professional, such as your GP or a dermatologist, in the following situations: New Symptoms: If you develop any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above, especially persistent facial redness or flushing. Rosacea can sometimes mimic other skin conditions, so a proper diagnosis is crucial. Worsening Symptoms: If your rosacea symptoms are becoming more frequent, severe, or widespread. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from getting worse. Development of Bumps and Pimples: If you start to develop acne-like breakouts on your face, especially if accompanied by redness and flushing. Over-the-counter acne treatments are often ineffective for rosacea and can even worsen it. Eye Involvement: If you experience any eye symptoms such as redness, dryness, irritation, or changes in vision. Ocular rosacea can sometimes be serious if left untreated and can potentially lead to eye damage. Impact on Quality of Life: If your rosacea symptoms are causing you embarrassment, anxiety, or affecting your social life and self-confidence. Effective treatments can significantly improve your well-being. Swollen or Red Nose: If you notice your nose becoming increasingly red, swollen, or bumpy, as this could be a sign of rhinophyma, a more advanced form of rosacea. NHS Treatment CHEC’s commitment to delivering accessible dermatology services within community settings aims to reduce patient waiting times and improve access to essential care. By working in partnership with the NHS, we strive to provide a seamless pathway for individuals experiencing dermatitis, ensuring they receive the support and treatment they need to manage their condition effectively. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for those living with rosacea, enabling them to regain comfort and confidence in their skin. 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Trevor Wood I was terrified of undergoing the procedure, but the Endoscopist and the nurses present were wonderful and made an uncomfortable procedure as pleasant as possible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you who were present. Gayle Taylor Fantastic staff from entering the building to leaving. Everybody was friendly, confident and couldn't have asked for anymore from them. A genuine credit to the NHS. Gareth The service and treatment were outstanding, with no long waiting time for an appointment. Following my consultation, I was given an appointment the next day to have my cataract removed. What a great service. John Elliott It was a very quick process from the consultation to the procedure. Very friendly and helpful staff. Helen C My 2nd cataract surgery was, in my opinion, a superb example of patient care. My surgeon and all the other staff were great ambassadors for CHEC. John Dunbavand I just had my cataract surgery at CHEC. Despite my nerves, the staff were reassuring and made me feel comfortable. The surgery was quick, I was kept informed at every stage which was great. I cannot recommend CHEC highly enough. Gill As soon as I arrived, I was made to feel at ease. All staff were friendly but professional, they couldn’t have been any better. I now have no fear in returning to continue my treatment. Linda S This was my first visit to CHEC, the Reception staff were extremely helpful and polite. All the other staff were very pleasant and made you feel welcome to be there, credit to you all. Linda James Welcoming, friendly, attentive, efficient, and above all, patient. Having my eyes tested at this practice provided excellent service at a time when one might wonder why these tests are necessary. Thanks to the staff I met today. Kevin Johnson The staff at Ilford were excellent. The nurses explained my procedure step by step, and when I met with the doctor, they were very welcoming and made me feel comfortable. Thank you so much. Barbara Murphy The staff are all very friendly, very kind and very smiley. I had a good experience, and I would definitely recommend Ilford practice to friends and family. Raahim I had my second cataract procedure at CHEC in Blackpool today. Once again l was impressed by the kindness, helpfulness, good humour, and professionalism of everybody who works there. Thank you. Graham Jones I had a laser capsulotomy treatment in Stevenage on Monday 26th February. I was in and out of the treatment centre in under 10 minutes. All instructions were easy to follow with astonishing results. Well-done and thank you. S Frost The staff were brilliant at each stage which made the entire process calming, from consultation through to the surgery. The receptionists were fantastic. Kim I found the whole process to be highly professional and competent and would therefore recommend this organisation without reservation to anyone who needs cataract surgery. Nigel Morgan I was made to feel relaxed from the moment we arrived by all the amazing staff. I wish other medical institutions were like this. Thank you. K.R. All the staff were attentive, polite and friendly. They listened to my individual needs and took great care of me. Mary Dyas Really quick referral and appointment at CHEC Stockport. Lovely staff. Efficient and timely appropriate medical care. Responsive follow up. Premises are really clean and a pleasant experience at a worrying time of a health issue involving eyesight. Excellent care thank you! Richard I am very pleased with the service at CHEC, it is absolutely first-class. From the receptionists, the way I was treated and having the operation done was good. Since having the operation my vision has been very good. Anonymous The whole process has been very fast and exceeded my expectations. The staff are all very friendly and professional. I am very pleased with CHEC Northampton. Anonymous I’m amazed by the quick, efficient service and ecstatic about the results. I now see car number plates, road signs, and TV text bright and clearly, with everything appearing detailed. This is the best birthday present ever. Thank you so much, please don’t change a thing. Marian Curran