What is Ocular Rosacea?

Find out more about ocular rosacea and its impact on eye health. Learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this condition.

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Ocular rosacea is inflammation of the eyes that causes redness, burning and itching. Read on to find out more.

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Ocular Rosacea

This type of rosacea primarily affects the eyes, as the name suggests, and can cause: 

  • Dryness and grittiness (like having a foreign body in the eye)
  • Blurred vision
  • Light sensitivity
  • Red and swollen eyelids
  • Frequent eye infections (conjunctivitis, blepharitis, styes and chalazion). 

On darker skin tones, ocular rosacea symptoms may also include a warm/hot feeling around the eyes.  Discolouration around the eyes darker than the usual skin tone is also possible, as are bloodshot eyes. 

Who does it affect?

Ocular rosacea usually develops in people already suffering with rosacea. For people who do not have rosacea, it can be the first sign of the development of other types of rosacea too. This uncomfortable condition commonly affects adults. Men and women between the ages of 30-50 are equally affected. 

Ocular Rosacea Causes

As with other types of rosacea, the exact cause of ocular rosacea is unknown. It is most likely due to hereditary factors and environmental factors. It can also be caused by bacteria and blocked eye glands (or eyelash mites).

Triggers

Triggers are similar to facial rosacea triggers. Avoid hot/spicy foods, alcohol, extreme temperatures and emotional distress. Sufferers should avoid situations that cause anger, embarrassment and stress. Hot baths and showers are also not advisable. An optometrist or dermatologist can diagnose the condition by physical examination. 

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Treating Ocular Rosacea

While ocular rosacea is a chronic disease with no cure, it should be treated promptly. Then symptoms can be controlled. If sufferers ignore symptoms, it can lead to complications of the cornea and even loss of vision. 

It is common for sufferers to relapse. If you suffer from ocular rosacea, follow the steps below and try to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the elements. Always keep the area around your eyes clean.

  • Using warm compresses
  • Eye drops containing lipids
  • Antibiotics 
  • Ph-balanced cleansers for the eyes.
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