While physical exercise may be a common rosacea trigger, the right changes in routines can reduce the likelihood of a flare-up, according to results of a new patient survey by the National Rosacea Society.

More than 80 percent of the survey’s 563 respondents said exercise aggravates their rosacea signs and symptoms.  Aerobic exercise in general (also known as cardio) was cited as the most aggravating, mentioned by nearly 55 percent of the patients.  This type of exercise increases the demand for oxygen, resulting in higher respiration and heart rates.

“Increased heart rate and respiration are usually accompanied by an increase in blood flow and core body temperature, so it’s not surprising that this type of exercise exacerbates rosacea,” said Dr. Julie Harper, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Alabama-Birmingham.  “The key is to modify the workout to minimize the effects on rosacea while still maintaining the cardiovascular and respiratory benefits.”

Nearly half of those answering the survey said they have modified their exercise routine as a result of their rosacea.  Of those who made modifications, 62 percent said it has reduced the frequency or severity of their flare-ups.

The most popular adaptive strategy was to lessen the intensity of the routine, cited by 51 percent of those making modifications.  Forty-seven percent said they use a fan or air conditioning while working out, and 36 percent said they have shortened the duration of their workouts.  Twenty-three percent said they have changed the time of day they exercise (presumably to a cooler time of day), and 20 percent said they use a spray bottle or a damp cloth to keep cooler.

Among the wide range of activities that survey respondents said were aggravating to their condition, jogging or running was the most frequently cited, named by 41 percent.  Walking was not far behind, mentioned by 36 percent, followed by bicycling, noted by 28 percent.

Other activities reported as rosacea triggers included push-ups and sit-ups, named by 22 percent; hiking (19 percent); weight lifting (18 percent); swimming and team sports (each 12 percent); and tennis (10 percent).