$Unique_ID{BRK00256}
$Pretitle{Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases}
$Title{What Can You Do For a Red Nose?}
$Subject{skin nose red rhinophyma}
$Volume{N-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Can You Do For a Red Nose?


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QUESTION:  I'm not a drinker, but I have beezer that would put W.C. Fields to
shame.  Its embarrassing, and I am at a loss to explain it.  What can I do for
my red nose that's growing?

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ANSWER:  There are number of treatments that may help your red nose condition
known as rhinophyma.  The antibiotic tetracycline may be useful, as may the
vitamin A acne treatments Retin-A (applied to the skin) and Accutane (pills).
If medicines don't work, surgery and other medical procedures, such as laser
surgery and peeling of the skin surface, may be effective.
     Its true that there is a common impression that this is an
"alcoholic's nose" but there is little scientific evidence to back that
up.  Many doctors believe that avoiding spicy foods, and caffeine can stop
or slow the redness and swelling.  Although, here again, there are not yet
any solid studies to prove that these foods are truly the culprits, it's
certainly worth a try to eliminate them from your diet and see if it
helps.
     If all else fails, and surgery is not for you, you might consider using
cosmetic make-up and powder, to reduce the redness, and diminish the attention
your nose may be getting.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
