Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Does Santa Claus Have Rosacea?

With his flowing white beard, bulbous red nose and rosy red cheeks, Santa Claus is the epitome of the Christmas season. But do his flushed features mean he is suffering the effects of one too many hot toddies at the festive fireside - or are they the result of rosacea, made worse by cold Nordic temperatures?
Santa's prominent reddened complexion are classic symptoms of a condition that affects 6 million women and men over the age of 40 in the UK.
Often mistaken for adult acne, rosacea can cause: flushing,acne-like bumps and pimples and visible veins on the face and neck. In its severe stages, the nose can become deformed, turning red and bulbous if left untreated.
Surveys reveal that those suffering from the condition:
- 7 in 10 people with rosacea suffer from low self-confidence and self-esteem
- 7 in 10 say that it affects their working life
- 4 in 10 have avoided being seen in public or have cancelled social plans
- A further 1 in 3 admit to calling in sick at work because of rosacea
Despite the numbers affected, few approved therapy options have been available. Studies show that one treatment option, Rosacea-Ltd is effective and well tolerated. It is also not an antibiotic and it does not promote antibiotic resistant 'superbugs'.
Knowing that there is an effective treatment option available can make all the difference. Up to 98% can expect to see real improvement in their symptoms if they adhere to the treatment regimen that has been recommended to them. Those who continue to use their rosacea therapy as directed will be able to keep their rosacea under control.