Q.  Certain activities trigger mild, short-lasting rosacea outbreaks on my cheeks and/or nose.  The outbreaks are not severe enough to make me stop these activities, but if I keep doing them could the flare-ups get worse?

A.  This aspect of potential rosacea triggers has not been studied, so it is unclear whether repeated exposure makes subsequent flare-ups worse.  Physicians have observed, however, that the signs and symptoms of rosacea tend to become increasingly severe without medical treatment and proper care.

Your best strategy may be to avoid or minimize your individual triggers whenever possible.  For instance, you could break up one long, intense exercise session into two or three shorter sessions.  Or, if you know red wine will trigger flushing, experiment to see if white or rosé wine will have the same effect.

In any case, be sure to use your medical therapy as prescribed by your doctor.

Q.  Today I noticed a painful, round bump on the side of my nose and was wondering if this is a symptom of my rosacea or just a pimple forming.  The redness and few bumps I have previously had on my face were never painful.

A.  This bump may be something unrelated to rosacea.  For example, it could be an inflamed acne lesion or even something more serious.  If it persists more than a few days, you should consult your dermatologist.