Rosacea

  Rosacea, formerly called acne rosacea, is an incurable disease that is acquired with age and is common in over 50% of patients over the age of 60.  Rosacea is a central facial disease involving the eyelids, nose, and cheeks.  It involves the visibility of red blood vessels, pimples, and styes.  It periodically waxes and wanes and varies, which has resulted in its description as a form of acne.  A classic "worst" case of rosacea is that of WC Fields.

What are the symptoms of rosacea that affect my eyes?

  The symptoms are variable, but generally include red, burning, and stinging eyes, as well as blurry vision, sharp momentary eye pains, and the feeling of a foreign body in the eye.

What are the ways rosacea can affect my eyes?

  Red, scaly, or oily eyelids often occur with rosacea.  Other eye problems are styes, chalazions, awkwardly growing eyelashes, and telangiectasia, which are small red blood vessels on the nose and eyelids.

What factors can aggravate rosacea?

  � Increased evaporation, such as the factors that can lead to dry eyes, also can aggravate rosacea.  These include:    � ceiling fans
               � air conditioning in the car or home
               � drafts and windy areas
               � dehydrated air in malls, hospitals, fabric stores, airplanes, and hotels

  � Dilation of blood vessels, caused by:
               � sunlight
               � alcohol
               � caffeine from any source
               � hot, spicy foods

  � Decreased blinking during close work, such as:
               � reading
               � computer work
               � sewing

What are some treatments for rosacea?

  Avoiding aggravating factors is the first line of defense against rosacea.  Proper eyelid care is also essential.  Wash and clean eyelids twice a day and gently massage out the excess oil.  Tear replacements can help the discomfort.  Flaxseed oil, medicines such as antibiotics, steroids, and facial creams are used for different symptoms.  There is also a new dermatological laser treatment to remove the facial blood vessels.  Surgery is also available for styes and chalazions.