Rosacea is a common skin condition that predominantly affects the face, causing redness, pimples, swelling, and visible blood vessels.
Often mistaken for acne or other skin ailments, rosacea's effects are not solely confined to the skin's surface.
A lesser-known aspect of this condition, which may come as a surprise to many, is its potential impact on the eyes, a condition referred to as ocular rosacea.
Understanding the link between rosacea and eye health is essential for those managing this condition.
Understanding Ocular Rosacea
Ocular rosacea is a manifestation of rosacea that specifically affects the eyes and eyelids, presenting a variety of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Individuals with this condition may experience redness, irritation, and a sensation of grittiness in the eyes, akin to the feeling of having sand trapped within.
Other symptoms include dryness, itching, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and swollen, reddened eyelids. In some cases, ocular rosacea can lead to more serious complications if left untreated, such as corneal damage.
Who is at Risk?
While rosacea can affect anyone, ocular rosacea is more commonly observed in individuals with fair skin and those who are prone to flushing and blushing easily.
It typically occurs in adults aged 30 to 50 and is often diagnosed in people who have a history of skin rosacea, although the eye symptoms can sometimes precede the skin manifestations.
Management and Treatment
Effective management of ocular rosacea involves a combination of good eyelid hygiene, prescription medications, and in some cases, professional treatments from a dermatologist or aesthetician.
Regular cleaning of the eyelids with gentle, baby shampoo or prescribed cleansers can help to alleviate symptoms.
Artificial tears and anti-inflammatory eye drops may also be recommended to reduce dryness and irritation.
For individuals with both ocular and skin rosacea, managing the overall condition can have a positive impact on eye symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding known triggers like spicy foods, alcohol, and extreme temperatures, as well as undergoing regular rosacea treatments, play a crucial role in managing rosacea's effects.
Ocular rosacea is a significant, albeit less recognised, aspect of rosacea that can profoundly affect an individual's quality of life. Awareness and early diagnosis are crucial for effective management and preventing potential complications.
If you experience symptoms of ocular rosacea, especially if you have been diagnosed with skin rosacea, seeking advice from healthcare professionals is recommended.
At Ambra aesthetic clinic, we offer rosacea treatments in North London to help manage and treat this condition. To discover what we can do, book your appointment today.