Common Rosacea Triggers

Whilst the cause or causes of rosacea are not yet fully understood, various factors are suggested which include genetic predisposition, environmental, e.g. stress and diest.

Triggers are not thought to cause the condition, but sometimes 'cause it to progress'.

A trigger is something that ‘triggers’ or causes symptoms, typically flushing and blushing.

Rosacea affects more women than men, but men seem to be more badly affected and often have more severe symptoms.

Triggers

Various foods and beverages have been identified by rosacea sufferers and independent studies as triggers. Examples are hot coffee, hot tea, hot water,  red wine, alcohol, spicy foods etc.

Hot drinks ecause flushing because of  ‘pharyngeal warming of the blood’ (in the throat). The jugular vein and carotid arteries pass nearby and the carotid arteries (and its branches) deliver blood to  the front portion of the brain. Caffeine can also cause flushing.

Some foods or drinks have more than one trigger, for example hot tea and hot coffee are both hot and contain caffeine.

At least one vitamin (niacin) can be a trigger and cause a flush. This effect has a name ‘niacin flush’; an alternative form of this B vitamin is called niacinamide and can be used instead.

Medications, especially ones for blood pressure can also cause flushing through vasodilatation. Stimulants such as coffee, tea, alcohol also cause vascular dilation, which results in blushing or flushing.

If you are thinking about having rosacea treatment, then at your first consultation, ensure your  rosacea specialist is made aware of any medications that are being taken.

Each person has to identify which foods they can enjoy and which should be avoided. The following are triggers for some sufferers:-

Red wine, hot drinks (or allow them to cool down), spicy foods, alcohol, coffee, cayenne pepper, red pepper, chocolate, tomatoes, citrus fruits,  beer, black pepper, white pepper, paprika, artificial sweeteners.

Avoid foods with added niacin (breakfast cereals have added vitamins).

 It is recommended that any person who thinks they may be developing rosacea make an appointment for a free first consultation (use the contact us page) and a specialist will be able to give information that is relevant to you.