OCULAR ROSACEA EYE FACTS
Rosacea (pronounced rose-AY-shah) is a chronic disease that affects both the skin and eyelids.

People with Rosacea affecting their skin my flush easily and have redness and/or acne-like symptoms on their nose, cheeks, chin or forehead. People who have ocular rosacea (involving the eye) may have:

• red or bloodshot eyes;
• burning or tearing;
• the sensation of foreign material or sand in the eye.

An inflammation of the eyelids can also occur and may cause redness and swelling on the lids and at the base of the eyelashes.

More than half of people with rosacea affecting their skin have some symptoms of ocular rosacea. However, some people may have ocular rosacea with minimal skin involvement.

Approximately 13 million people in the United States have rosacea. It usually occurs in adults (especially women) between the ages of 30 and 60. Although people of any skin color can develop rosacea, it tends to occur most frequently in people with fair skin.

What causes rosacea?

Scientists do not know what causes rosacea, but some think that genetics and environment may play a role in its development.

Some researchers believe that rosacea is a disorder that involves swelling of the blood vessels, where something causes the blood vessels to swell, resulting in flushing and redness. Other scientists think that a microscopic organism or mite in tiny facial hair follicles may clog the skin's oil gland openings, causing swelling and redness. Some research has also shown a possible link between rosacea and the bacteria called Helicobacter pylori - the same bacteria that cause gastrointestinal infections.

Several factors are known to aggravate (but not cause) rosacea, including:

• exposure to heat, sunlight, wind and cold;
• strenuous physical activity;
• drinking alcohol;
• consuming hot drinks or spicy foods;
• experiencing emotional stress;
• coughing for long periods.

How is rosacea treated?

Rosacea cannot be cured, but it can be treated and controlled. For skin symptoms, doctors usually prescribe either a topical antibiotic (which is applied directly to the skin), or in more severe cases, an oral antibiotic (taken by mouth). Ocular symptoms usually are treated with oral antibiotics, such as tetracycline or doxycycline, or with prescription eyedrops or ointments containing steroids. Artificial teartype saline solutions can help relieve some of the symptoms of ocular rosacea by keeping eyes well moistened. Some people, however, should avoid using eyedrops specifically meant for clearing up bloodshot eyes, as these eventually can make ocular rosacea symptoms worse.

Applying warm cloths or pads to the eyes several times a day can also help relieve the effects of ocular rosacea.

Ocular rosacea, on occasion, may affect eyesight if left untreated. Once ocular rosacea is treated and controlled, a patient's condition generally improves.