Rosacea is divided into four sub-types, with each one characterised by specific symptoms.
1 Many people experience characteristics of more than one sub-type of rosacea at the same time, and the condition may, in fact, progress from one sub-type to another. In addition, individual signs or symptoms can turn from mild to moderate to severe. This is why early diagnosis and treatment is so important.
If you think you may have any signs or symptoms described below you should seek medical advice from your doctor.
Flushing rosacea (erythematotelangiectatic rosacea) is characterised by flushing and persistent redness (erythema) of the central part of the face and cheeks. This may be accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation.
Pimple/acne-like rosacea (papulopustular rosacea) is associated with the appearance of pimples and pustules alongside the characteristic flushing. This sub-type often develops after flushing rosacea.
Skin thickening rosacea (phymatous rosacea) mainly affects men and is characterised by a thickening of the skin on the nose and other parts of the face. In severe cases the nose can become significantly enlarged and bulbous – this is known as rhinophyma. There may, however, be no other signs or symptoms of rosacea present.
Rosacea of the eyes (ocular rosacea) symptoms can be varied and can include watery or bloodshot eyes, conjunctivitis (gritty feeling eyes), and irritation, or the feeling of a foreign body in the eye, for example. The eyelids may also become red and swollen and styes are common. Severe cases can result in corneal damage and vision loss, so if you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should consult your doctor immediately.
1. Wilkin J et al. Standard classification of rosacea: report of the National Rosacea Expert Committee on the classification and staging of rosacea. J Am Acad Dermatol 2002;46:584–7.