Extreme disfigurement of the nose can narrow the airways in the nose, making it difficult to breathe. The nose may also take on a purple-like hue in these severe rhinophyma cases. Rhino means nose while phyma means a swelling, nodule, or skin tumor. Pamela was successfully treated first with Ultherapy and a debulking procedure, along with a CO2 resurfacing with laser surgery. Her long-term treatment plan then included a prescription for Accutane.
Outpatient Treatment
As stated earlier, the medical definition of an alcoholic nose is rhinophyma. However, it’s always important to keep in mind that rhinophyma ultimately manifests itself as a side effect of rosacea. People can experience rhinophyma without drinking alcohol or very occasionally drinking it. As you can see from that list, alcohol is a factor that can trigger a rosacea flare-up.
When to see a doctor
- The exact cause of rhinophyma is unknown beyond the fact that it is related to rosacea, and for some people who develop it, it can be a mystery as to why.
- However, rhinophyma is not considered a precursor for malignancy [1].
- It causes irregular redness or flushing of your face, particularly in the cheeks or nasal areas.
Of course, due to the nature of addiction, this is often easier said than done. To give yourself the best chance of recovering and achieving long-term sobriety, consider seeking professional addiction treatment. Surgical and drug-based treatments can help, but limited research suggests that the condition may recur after surgery. Rhinophyma may respond well alcoholic nose to topical treatments, such as metronidazole and isotretinoin, in the early stages though. Few long-term studies have explored how often rhinophyma recurs after surgery, though limited research suggests that this is possible. Over time, the number of sebaceous glands and the changes in connective tissue increase, which can result in progressive deformity.
Can You Detox Off Drugs or Alcohol at Home? The Benefits of Inpatient Detox Programs
“Rhinophyma” is the medical term for “drinker’s nose”, which is a side effect of the skin condition rosacea. Contrary to popular belief, a “drinker’s nose” is not necessarily caused by alcohol addiction or abuse. Yes, alcoholic nose is also known by other names like alcoholism nose, alcoholic red nose, whiskey nose, drinker’s nose, and beer nose. These names all describe the same condition where the nose becomes red, swollen, and bumpy.
- In rare instances, a doctor may perform a biopsy to test the rhinophyma, but this is typically only done in cases of rhinophyma that have not responded to treatments.
- Notably, it should not be assumed that someone with this condition suffers from alcohol use disorder.
- Although the condition worsens with excessive alcohol use, an alcoholic nose is not a sign of addiction or a drinking problem.
- Alcohol use disorder and skin conditions like rosacea are connected because of the potential for alcohol to worsen existing skin conditions.
- Now, more studies have shown that alcoholism is not necessarily the cause of rhinophyma.
- Call us now to get help finding the ideal alcohol recovery program.
What Is Alcoholic Nose or Rhinophyma—Is That More Than a Myth?
The most common type of skin cancer in these cases is basal cell carcinoma. Some experts argue that rhinophyma is actually a precancerous skin condition. If you’re worried about alcohol consumption leading to drinker’s nose or rhinophyma, you may also show signs of alcohol abuse. If preventative techniques don’t work and you develop this skin condition, surgery is the most common method of treatment.
Dual Diagnosis
Feeling so self-conscious about the appearance of a nose with rhinophyma can become a great source of anxiety for some people. Now, does this mean that alcohol is completely unrelated to rhinophyma? According to the Mayo Clinic, rosacea symptoms often come in episodes. The symptoms will flare up for a few weeks or months and then slowly die down. The symptoms might be very mild for an amount of time and then the cycle is repeated again. Rhinophyma is an entirely unique condition that is separate from alcoholism.
What Is An Alcoholic Nose Or Drinker’s Nose (Rhinophyma)?
Another option is isotretinoin, a drug that shrinks the sebaceous glands, limiting how much oil they make. However, if a person wishes to have surgery, they must stop taking this medication. Also, chronic infection often results because the fluid from the sebaceous glands thickens and can hold bacteria. Szymańska-Skrzypek, Anna; Burduk, Paweł K.; Betlejewski, Stanisław. “[Rhinophyma–diagnosis and treatment].” Polish Journal of Otolaryngology, 2004. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Due to the higher prevalence in males, scientists suspect that male hormones increase the risk. Having a big nose, even as a result of rosacea, is not necessarily a sign of alcoholism. If you or a loved one are looking for substance abuse treatment, help is available.
This is a great tool for those looking to stop drinking because of alcoholic nose. A medically supervised detox allows them to fully quit drinking in a safe, encouraging environment. Before discussing potential treatment options for alcoholic nose, it is important to understand whether or not alcohol itself is truly to blame.
However, it is very important to note that rosacea and rhinophyma can be agitated by things other than alcohol. Stress, sleeplessness, dehydration, depression, improper diet, dry skin, and many other factors can agitate rosacea and rhinophyma. Although this is not rosacea, it can worsen the effects and symptoms of rosacea in people who suffer from it. Several surgical techniques have been described in the management of rhinophyma. The main principle is shaving the redundant tissue while avoiding damage to the underlying cartilage. The depth of shaving should leave enough skin adnexal structures at the wound surface to allow proper healing by secondary intention.