Rosacea is often much more than a cosmetic problem and may need to be recognized by a broader spectrum of the medical community, according to a new survey by the National Rosacea Society.

In the survey of 2,113 rosacea patients, 45 percent said they were prompted to seek diagnosis and treatment because of the emotional, social or professional consequences of their condition, while 37 percent were motivated by the physical discomfort of rosacea symptoms. Only 33 percent of the respondents were motivated by changes in appearance alone.

In addition to its physical effects, rosacea often casts a dreary spell on one's emotional well-being, according to a survey of rosacea patients by the National Rosacea Society. Fortunately, most patients said they are able to overcome these drawbacks through effective treatment and coping techniques.