Q.  I enjoy lifting weights, but whenever I put my body under physical stress my symptoms get worse.  What type of physical exercise is optimal and at what intensity? 

A.  Any physical exercise that greatly increases your core body temperature may result in flushing and a flare-up of rosacea symptoms, so low- to medium-intensity exercise is probably your best bet.  You might be able to reduce the intensity of your current exercise routine with these techniques:

Q. This is my second round of rosacea, but this time it came with a tightening, burning, hot feeling. It is also very itchy. Is itching normal?

A. Yes, itching is a common secondary symptom of rosacea.

Q. I have itching due to rosacea that occurs during the evening and disrupts my sleep. What can I do to alleviate this itching?

A. Sleeping in a room that is too warm often causes itching. A fan or air conditioner may help alleviate this.

The itching also may be caused by overly dry skin or by skin-care products. Avoid rubbing and scratching, which may bring immediate relief but can make matters worse.

While the effects of rosacea on facial appearance are widely known, the majority of patients also experience physical discomfort, according to a recent survey by the National Rosacea Society.

In the survey of 605 rosacea patients, 93 percent said they experienced at least some physical discomfort due to their rosacea. Among those who experienced discomfort, the most common complaints were burning (72 percent), itching (61 percent), stinging (52 percent) and swelling (41 percent).

Beyond the effects of rosacea on facial appearance, the disorder is also frequently associated with facial discomfort, according to a new survey by the National Rosacea Society.