Today's expanding knowledge of the signs and symptoms of rosacea can help unmask this widespread but little-known facial disorder now affecting an estimated 14 million Americans. April was designated Rosacea Awareness Month by the National Rosacea Society to encourage those who may suffer from this often embarrassing and potentially serious condition to seek diagnosis and treatment before it increasingly disrupts their daily lives.

For many people with rosacea, bold spicy flavors can turn a culinary adventure into a craving gone bad. If spicy foods are one of your rosacea tripwires, here are some tips for avoiding flare-ups while keeping a little sizzle in your meal.

When Joyce Kierstead first began to notice the road map of tiny red lines appearing on her chin in her late 20s, she didn't realize it would lead her down the wrong path.

"It sent me right to the nearest cosmetic counter, where I ended up getting all the wrong information," Kierstead said. She was often told her problem was that she was not cleaning her skin properly, or that she needed a better foundation.

High blood pressure may occur more frequently in rosacea patients, according to a recent study by Dr. Aditya Gupta, associate professor, Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto, presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Q. I was diagnosed with rosacea several years ago, but I've never had any visible blood vessels, bumps or pimples. I have eye irritation, and have only experienced some redness on my face. Is it possible for rosacea not to include its most common signs?

A. The signs and symptoms of rosacea can vary substantially from one patient to another, and may include various combinations of signs and symptoms.

A sunny, bright spring day can be a warm and invigorating outdoor adventure, but for many rosacea sufferers it's a call to remember to take special precautions against sun exposure.

"The significance of sun-damaged skin in rosacea cannot be stressed enough," said Dr. Joseph Bikowski, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Pittsburgh. "Protection from the sun should be an integral part of any rosacea treatment regimen."

Rosacea patients may often suffer from other skin conditions in addition to dealing with the effects of their rosacea, according to a new survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society.

"It's common for people to experience more than one skin condition, especially as they grow older," said Dr. James Del Rosso, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Nevada. "While the potential signs and symptoms of rosacea itself can be quite varied, it is important to consider the possibility of other skin disorders as well."