Ocular rosacea is a common but often overlooked eye condition, closely related to facial rosacea. Understanding ocular rosacea is key to recognizing its symptoms, which primarily affect the eyes and can lead to dry eye. This blog will help educate you on how it impacts your eyes and the importance of timely treatment.

What is Ocular Rosacea?
Ocular rosacea is a subtype of rosacea, a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the skin, particularly the face. However, in ocular rosacea, the inflammation extends to the eyes, causing a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact your quality of life. It’s important to note that ocular rosacea can occur with or without the presence of facial rosacea.

Symptoms of Ocular Rosacea

• Redness: The most noticeable symptom is persistent redness in the eyes.
• Burning or Stinging: Patients often experience a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes.
• Dryness: Ocular rosacea is frequently associated with dry eye syndrome, leading to gritty or sandy sensations.
• Light Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to light, known as photophobia, is common.
• Blurry Vision: In severe cases, ocular rosacea can cause vision problems due to corneal damage.

How Does Ocular Rosacea Affect Your Eyes?
If left untreated, ocular rosacea can lead to more serious complications. The inflammation can cause damage to the cornea, leading to potential vision loss. Additionally, it can exacerbate dry eye symptoms, making everyday tasks like reading or using a computer more difficult.

The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing ocular rosacea. At Island Eyecare, we emphasize the importance of regular eye exams to catch this condition before it progresses. If you have facial rosacea, it’s especially important to monitor your eye health, as up to 60% of people with facial rosacea will develop ocular symptoms.

Treatment Options at Island Eyecare
Island Eyecare, in collaboration with Helix Medspa, offers advanced treatment options for ocular rosacea. One of the most effective treatments we provide is the use of InMode’s Lumecca-I device. This technology targets inflammation and improves symptoms by promoting healthier skin and eye tissue.

Preventing Flare-Ups
While there is no cure for ocular rosacea, certain lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms and prevent flare-ups:

• Avoid Triggers: Common triggers include spicy foods, alcohol, extreme temperatures, and stress. Identifying and avoiding these can reduce symptoms.
• Proper Eye Hygiene: Regular cleaning of the eyelids and eyelashes can prevent infections and reduce irritation.
• Sun Protection: Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays can protect your eyes from sun damage and reduce redness.

Ocular rosacea is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on your eye health. Understanding the symptoms and seeking early treatment can help manage the condition effectively. At Island Eyecare, we offer comprehensive care and advanced treatment options to help you maintain healthy eyes and manage ocular rosacea. If you suspect you might have ocular rosacea, schedule an eye exam with us today.

Dr. Anita Narang