Dry Eye: Rosacea

Written By TN

WHAT IS ROSACEA

Rosacea is a chronic dermatological condition which affects women 2-3 times more than men. The condition is diagnosed based on the patient’s symptoms and physical examination of the skin. In those suffering with rosacea, up to 60% also experience associated ocular complications. Most will complain of dry eyes, foreign body sensation, burning and stinging.

Rosacea. Dry Eye Comparison. Eye Irritation. Rosacea.

WHAT IS OCULAR ROSACEA

The etiology of ocular rosacea is inflammation caused by on overgrowth of Staphylococcal bacteria on the eyelid margin. The bacteria will release exotoxins which increase the likelihood of conjunctivitis, blepharitis, recurrent styes, meibomian gland dysfunction and keratitis (inflammation of the cornea). Some ocular rosacea patients will complain of increased itchiness which is due to an overgrowth of Demodex mites feeding off the increased bacterial load on the lids.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTING

  • Eyelid margin examination

  • Tear break up time

  • Anterior segment examination

  • LashCamTM

TREATMENT:

The symptoms of ocular rosacea can be managed with proper eyelid hygiene, lubricating artificial tears, nutritional support, and low-dose oral antibiotics (doxycycline).

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Before and after Rosacea treatment.

Overgrowth of Demodex exfoliated with Bleph-Ex

  • Avoid triggers (alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, cheese)

  • UV protection (mineral based sunscreen, sunglasses)

  • Eyelid cleansers/wipes with tea tree oil

  • Ointments with vitamin A

  • Preservative-free artificial tears

  • Omega-3 supplements

  • Probiotics (especially important when taking oral antibiotics)

  • Eye lid margin exfoliation

  • Intense-pulse-light treatments

TN

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