QUESTION: I am too embarrassed to ask my boyfriend why his nose is fiery red and swollen.
He also has red splotches on his cheeks.
I don't think he is an alcoholic.
He is elderly, active and to be in good health.
Would you care to offer an explanation?
ANSWER: I am happy that I have an answer for you that can be quite reassuring.
You have clearly described a condition called "rhinophyma;" the term derived from Greek words "rhino" for "nose" and "phyma" meaning "growth". It occurs as a result of a skin condition rosacea which is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the central areas of the face, and particularly the nose.
The areas become red, with widened blood vessels apparent, and pustules and papules appearing in the area as well.
The nose tissue begin to grow, appearing swollen and sometimes misshapen.
The cause is still unknown, but it usually appears after middle age and is most common in individuals with fair complexion.
Although commonly thought to be a sign of an alcoholic, this is not true, and many nondrinkers suffer with this condition.
Diet probably has nothing to do with it either.
It can be treated, and long term use of tetracycline antibiotic is frequently recommended and may be quite effective, since a single dose once a day may be enough to keep the condition in check once control has been achieved.
A topical cream of metronidazole may also be applied locally.
If the shape of the nose has become a cause of concern, surgical correction may be used to reshape its form.
The presence of this disorder is not a sign of any other health impairment, and so the good health your boyfriend apparently enjoys is probably real.
Since there are treatments available, I hope he reads this column and avails himself of them.
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.
