Rosacea Signs and Symptoms

Flushing

Many people with rosacea have a history of frequent blushing or flushing. This facial redness may come and go, and is often the earliest sign of the disorder.
" Persistent Redness Persistent facial redness is the most common individual sign of rosacea, and may resemble a blush or sunburn that does not go away. " Bumps and Pimples Small red solid bumps or pus-filled pimples often develop. While these may resemble acne, blackheads are absent and burning or stinging may occur. " Visible Blood Vessels In many people with rosacea, small blood vessels become visible on the skin. Other Potential Signs and Symptoms " Eye Irritation In many people with rosacea, the eyes may be irritated and appear watery or bloodshot, a condition known as ocular rosacea. The eyelids also may become red and swollen, and styes are common. Severe cases can result in corneal damage and vision loss without medical help. " Burning or Stinging Burning or stinging sensations may often occur on the face. Itching or a feeling of tightness may also develop. " Dry Appearance The central facial skin may be rough, and thus appear to be very dry. " Plaques Raised red patches, known as plaques, may develop without changes in the surrounding skin. " Skin Thickening The skin may thicken and enlarge from excess tissue, most commonly on the nose. This condition, known as rhinophyma, affects more men than women. " Swelling Facial swelling, known as edema, may accompany other signs of rosacea or occur independently. " Signs Beyond the Face Rosacea signs and symptoms may also develop beyond the face, most commonly on the neck, chest, scalp or ears.