Rosacea, a skin disorder that causes a red-faced, acne-like appearance, affects more than 16 million Americans. However, according to the National Rosacea Society (NRS), a survey conducted by the organization found that 95 percent of patients knew little or nothing about their disease’s symptoms and signs before their diagnosis.

So what has sufferers seeing red? Continue reading to find out.

What Causes It?

The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, although, according to NRS, there are a number of theories about the root of the disease, which include:

●    Facial blood vessels that dilate too easily, causing increased blood flow near the skin, which causes flushing

●    Cathelicidins, or anti-microbial proteins that help the body fight off illness, may cause the inflammatory bumps and acne-like pimples, as well as the flushing associated with rosacea

●    Triggers, which can range from UV light exposure to alcohol and spicy food, may trigger the sensory nervous system, causing redness and swelling.

●    There may be a genetic component that causes rosacea. According to a study of twins conducted by Case Western University, researchers found that rosacea may occur more often in both identical twins than in sets of fraternal twins.

●    Microscopic skin mites may play a role in triggering the acne-like bumps experienced by some rosacea patients